Ephratah Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Ephratah Dam, located in Fulton, New York, is a privately-owned structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and spans 760 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Caroga Creek and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).

Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Ephratah Dam plays a significant role in the local water resource management, with a normal storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4860 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 251 feet. The structure underwent its last inspection in December 2020 and is subject to frequent assessments and regulatory oversight by the NYS DEC.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ephratah Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intricate balance between energy production and environmental stewardship. As a key component in the hydroelectric infrastructure of the region, the dam presents both opportunities and challenges in terms of water management and risk mitigation. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory scrutiny, Ephratah Dam exemplifies the complex interplay between human intervention and natural forces in shaping our water resources and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

CAROGA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

52

Nid Storage

750

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
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.