Rainbow Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rainbow Dike No. 2 Five Falls
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Rainbow Dam, located on the Raquette River in South Colton, New York, is a privately owned hydroelectric structure completed in 1956.
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Summary
With a gravity dam type and a height of 82 feet, Rainbow Dam provides a storage capacity of 12,160 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 715 acres. The dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, making it a vital asset for the surrounding community and water resource enthusiasts.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Rainbow Dam has a high hazard potential due to its location and structure. Despite this, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as unavailable, indicating a need for further evaluation and maintenance. The dam's spillway, with a width of 750 feet, is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates consist of two slide (sluice) gates. With a maximum discharge capacity of 82,100 cubic feet per second, Rainbow Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water resource sustainability in the region.
Although Rainbow Dam poses a moderate risk level, it continues to be a significant fixture in the local landscape and a key player in managing water resources and climate impact. Its historical significance and functional design make it a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike, showcasing the intersection of human innovation and environmental stewardship in the pursuit of sustainable energy generation and water management practices.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
2677 |
Dam Height |
82 |
River Or Stream |
Raquette River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
715 |
Drainage Area |
929 |
Nid Storage |
12160 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
82 |
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.
Rainbow