Crescent - Dam A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Crescent - Dam A, located in Cohoes, New York, on the Mohawk River, is a key hydroelectric structure with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1912.


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Summary

This concrete gravity dam stands at 53 feet high and stretches 902 feet in length, providing essential services for navigation, water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. With a storage capacity of 70,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 548,300 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Operated by the State of New York, Crescent - Dam A is not only an engineering marvel but also a significant regulatory asset under the purview of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. With its multi-arch design and rock foundation, the dam continues to serve as a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources for generations to come.

As climate change impacts water availability and variability, Crescent - Dam A stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving environmental challenges. With its strategic location and critical functions, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate adaptation, and sustainable energy production, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the complex dynamics of water infrastructure in a changing world.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

902

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

Mohawk River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2000

Drainage Area

3453

Nid Storage

70000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

53
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.