Trenton - Auxiliary Spillway Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
The Trenton - Auxiliary Spillway in Trenton Falls, New York, is a vital structure designed for hydroelectric purposes on the West Canada Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1901, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 5 feet with a length of 159.5 feet, providing storage of 264 acre-feet and serving a drainage area of 376 square miles. With a controlled spillway width of 160 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 20,000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.
Owned by unspecified entities and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Trenton - Auxiliary Spillway poses a significant hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Emergency action plans have been prepared, with the most recent revision in January 2021, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring public safety in the event of a potential emergency situation.
As a key component in the region's water resource infrastructure, the Trenton - Auxiliary Spillway exemplifies the intersection of technology, environmental considerations, and public safety. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, this dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that water resources play in sustaining communities and supporting sustainable development in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
159.5 |
Dam Height |
5 |
River Or Stream |
West Canada Creek |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
376 |
Nid Storage |
264 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
5 |
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.
Trenton - Auxiliary Spillway