Effley Intake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Effley Intake, located in Belfort, New York, is a private hydroelectric facility on the Beaver River constructed in 1902.


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Summary

It features a concrete dam with a height of 26 feet and a length of 75 feet, providing a storage capacity of 3140 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 340 acres. Despite being regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Effley Intake is not subject to state permitting but undergoes regular inspections by the federal agency.

With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating, Effley Intake poses significant challenges in terms of risk management and emergency preparedness. The facility lacks a condition assessment and Emergency Action Plan, yet it remains operational for hydroelectric purposes. Efforts to ensure the safety and resilience of the structure are crucial, especially given its age and potential impact on the surrounding environment and communities in Lewis County, New York.

Effley Intake's historical significance as a hydroelectric facility underscores the importance of balancing water resource utilization with environmental protection and public safety. As climate change continues to influence water availability and weather patterns, the management and maintenance of such structures become increasingly vital. By addressing the facility's risk factors and implementing appropriate risk management measures, Effley Intake can continue to contribute to renewable energy production while safeguarding local water resources and ecosystems in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Beaver River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

340

Drainage Area

249

Nid Storage

3140

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.