Five Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rainbow Rainbow Dike No. 2
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Five Falls, located on the Raquette River in South Colton, New York, is a privately-owned hydroelectric dam completed in 1954 with a primary purpose of generating electricity.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at a height of 53 feet and has a length of 1750 feet, providing a storage capacity of 2295 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 70,000 cubic feet per second, Five Falls plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and power generation in the region.
The dam also serves recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 120 acres for activities such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees the inspection and operation of Five Falls, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 492 feet, further enhances its ability to manage excess water flow during periods of high discharge.
Overall, Five Falls is a significant structure on the Raquette River, providing both hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities while maintaining a moderate level of risk management. As a key player in water resource management and climate adaptation, this dam exemplifies the balance between energy production and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions. Its location in the scenic St. Lawrence County adds to the allure of this engineering marvel, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to witness its impressive capabilities firsthand.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
1750 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
Raquette River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
120 |
Drainage Area |
932 |
Nid Storage |
2295 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
53 |
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.
Five Falls