West End Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tannery - Dam "A" Carthage State Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
West End Dam in Herrings, New York, is a privately owned concrete gravity dam completed in 1905 for hydroelectric purposes on the Black River.
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Summary
With a height of 18 feet and a length of 1390 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 1807 square miles. The dam has a low hazard potential and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, with inspections conducted periodically to ensure its safety and functionality.
Located in Jefferson County, West End Dam is a key structure in the region's water resource management, providing essential hydroelectric power while also serving as a flood control measure. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 1300 feet, helps regulate water flow during high discharge periods, mitigating flood risks downstream. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term resilience against climate-related challenges.
West End Dam stands as a historic landmark in the area, contributing to the local economy and environment through its hydroelectric operations. With its strategic location and design features, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure asset for the community, reflecting a balance between water resource utilization and conservation efforts. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water management systems, West End Dam's role in sustainable energy production and water supply regulation underscores the importance of proactive adaptation measures to safeguard against future uncertainties.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
1390 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
13.2 |
Drainage Area |
1807 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
West End Dam