Colton Reservoir Report
Nearby: Higley South Colton
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Colton is a privately owned hydroelectric dam situated on the Raquette River in Colton, New York.
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Summary
Completed in 1919, this gravity dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 306 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 620 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, utilizing a mix of slide and tainter gates for water control.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Colton Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. With a high hazard potential due to its location and size, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. While the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks or incidents that may arise.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and environmental preservation may find Colton Dam's historical significance and ongoing management under federal oversight to be a compelling case study. As a key player in the hydroelectric power generation landscape, Colton serves as a reminder of the critical balance between energy production and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
306 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Raquette River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
152 |
Drainage Area |
981 |
Nid Storage |
620 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raquette River At South Colton Ny
|
360cfs |
W Br St. Regis R Nr Parishville Ny
|
211cfs |
Raquette River At Raymondville Ny
|
2060cfs |
Grass River At Chase Mills Ny
|
1350cfs |
Oswegatchie River Near Heuvelton Ny
|
1250cfs |
St. Regis River At Brasher Center Ny
|
534cfs |
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.
Colton