Mill C Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Mill C, also known as Woods Mill Pool Dam, is a historic structure located in Morrisonville, New York, along the Saranac River.


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Summary

Built in 1922, this masonry dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a storage capacity of 40.3 acre-feet, making it primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and water supply purposes. The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Mill C plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the local community's energy needs. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate efficiently, with three slide (sluice gate) outlets and an uncontrolled spillway design. The dam's association with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ensures that it meets rigorous safety standards and is maintained to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mill C is a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering that continues to play a vital role in modern water management practices.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

202

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

Saranac River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

7.9

Drainage Area

567

Nid Storage

40.3

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

43
       
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.