Hinckley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Prospect Trenton - Auxiliary Spillway
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Hinckley Dam, located in Herkimer, New York, is a significant hydroelectric structure built in 1914 by the New York State Dept.
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Summary
of Public Works/DOT. The dam, with a height of 83 feet and a length of 3635 feet, serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, and water supply. The dam has a storage capacity of 76,200 acre-feet and controls the flow of the West Canada Creek, with a maximum discharge of 106,695 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Hinckley Dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the dam's condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted. The dam's spillway, with a width of 400 feet, is uncontrolled, presenting a potential risk in case of high water flow. Despite being located in a state regulated area, the dam does not require state permitting but undergoes regular state inspections.
Overall, Hinckley Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, providing clean energy through hydroelectric power generation and ensuring a stable water supply for various purposes. With its historical significance and multifaceted contributions, Hinckley Dam remains a key player in the sustainable utilization of water resources and combating the challenges posed by climate change.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
3635 |
Dam Height |
83 |
River Or Stream |
West Canada Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2850 |
Drainage Area |
374 |
Nid Storage |
76200 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
83 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hinckley