Herrings Reservoir Report
Nearby: Deferiet West End Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Herrings is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Jefferson, New York, along the Black River.
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Summary
Built in 1924, this concrete dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 650 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 669.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 140 acres. Operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Herrings serves as a vital source of renewable energy in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 46,000 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Herrings is subject to regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. The dam's risk assessment stands at a moderate level, with a condition assessment currently unavailable. While the dam's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in 2013, it meets regulatory guidelines, although specific emergency contacts and inundation maps are not readily available.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Herrings presents a fascinating case study of a historic hydroelectric structure that continues to play a crucial role in sustainable energy production. Its location in the scenic landscape of Jefferson County, New York, highlights the intersection of engineering innovation, environmental stewardship, and regulatory oversight in the preservation of our water resources and the mitigation of climate-related risks.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
140 |
Drainage Area |
1810 |
Nid Storage |
669.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Herrings