Carry Falls Dike A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Carry Falls Dike A, located in St.


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Summary

Lawrence, New York, is a privately owned structure built in 1953 for hydroelectric purposes on the Raquette River. The dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 410 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 104,463 acre-feet. Despite being regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam is not state-permitted or enforced, making it a unique case in water resource management.

With a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating, Carry Falls Dike A poses a potential threat to the surrounding area in the event of a breach or emergency situation. Despite lacking a formal condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, with the last one conducted in January 2021. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it remains a critical piece of infrastructure for both hydroelectric generation and recreational use in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricate details of structures like Carry Falls Dike A can provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in managing our water resources sustainably. With its historical significance and functional importance, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources for energy production and ensuring the safety and well-being of surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Raquette River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3000

Drainage Area

877

Nid Storage

104463

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.