Rainbow Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alice Falls Dead Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Rainbow Falls, located in Ausable Chasm, New York, is a significant hydroelectric dam constructed in 1926 with a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power.
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Summary
This concrete gravity dam, standing at a height of 19 feet and spanning a length of 435 feet, has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and serves the Ausable River watershed. The dam's spillway, with a width of 245 feet, is uncontrolled and has a maximum discharge capacity of 15,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial structure for managing water flow and energy production in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Rainbow Falls is classified as having a significant hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam's condition assessment is not available, it undergoes regular inspections with an inspection frequency of 1 year. Despite being a federal facility, it is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. In the event of an emergency, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is prepared and last reviewed in December 2020 to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding community.
With its historical significance and vital role in energy production, Rainbow Falls is a key feature of the Ausable River watershed. Water and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering marvel of this dam, along with its impact on the local ecosystem and water resource management. As a public utility structure, Rainbow Falls plays a crucial role in providing clean and sustainable energy while contributing to the overall resilience of the region's water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
Ausable River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
503 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Ausable Point - DEC
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Primitive Campsite 15
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Primitive Campsite 16
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Primitive Campsite 20
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Primitive Campsite 19
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Primitive Campsite 14
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Rainbow Falls
Port Douglas Boat Launch