Soft Maple Terminal Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Soft Maple Terminal is a private hydroelectric facility located in Belfort, New York, along the Beaver River.


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Summary

Built in 1926, this dam stands at a height of 100 feet and has a length of 720 feet, providing a storage capacity of 2678 acre-feet. The facility is owned and operated by a private entity, with inspections conducted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

The dam at Soft Maple Terminal is primarily used for hydroelectric purposes, utilizing a stone core and soil foundation for structural support. With a high hazard potential, the facility is closely monitored for any potential risks, although the current condition assessment is not available. The dam is equipped with two slide (sluice gate) outlet gates, ensuring proper water flow management. Despite not being regulated by the state, the facility falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Soft Maple Terminal is a historical landmark in the region, providing essential hydropower generation while serving as a critical component of the local water resource infrastructure. As climate enthusiasts and water resource stakeholders, understanding the operations and safety measures at facilities like Soft Maple Terminal is crucial for ensuring sustainable and efficient water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

100

River Or Stream

Beaver River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

400

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

2678

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

100
       
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.