Stillwater - North Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Stillwater - North Dam, located in Herkimer, New York, is a state-regulated hydroelectric dam on the Beaver River, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1924, this earth dam stands at a height of 55 feet and has a storage capacity of 108,000 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource for the region. The dam features five slide (sluice) gates for water release and a spillway width of 335 feet for uncontrolled water discharge.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Stillwater - North Dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, but emergency action plans are in place to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen incidents. With its historical significance and continued role in water management and energy production, this dam remains a vital infrastructure for the community, showcasing the intersection of water resources, climate management, and public safety.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

935

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

Beaver River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6490

Drainage Area

171

Nid Storage

108000

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

55
       
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.