East Canada Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

East Canada Lake Dam, also known as Beardslee Falls Dam, is a privately owned structure located in East Creek, Herkimer, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1924, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and spans 1032 feet across East Canada Creek. The primary purpose of the dam is hydroelectric power generation, with a storage capacity of 5865 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 57340 cubic feet per second.

Despite its significant contribution to the region's energy supply, East Canada Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam is categorized as having a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. State-regulated and frequently inspected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the dam's emergency action plan is crucial in mitigating potential threats and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities.

As a crucial component of the local water resource infrastructure, East Canada Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human development and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance and functional importance in the region, efforts to maintain and enhance the dam's safety and efficiency are vital for sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in East Creek and beyond.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

1032

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

EAST CANADA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

173

Drainage Area

288

Nid Storage

5865

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.