The Upper North Channel Dam, located in Watertown, New York, on the Black River, is a privately owned concrete structure completed in 1948 for hydroelectric purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 24 feet with a length of 90 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 1810 acres. With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is classified as uncontrolled with a spillway width of 90 feet.
Although the dam has not been rated for its condition, it undergoes inspections every four years, with the last inspection conducted in August 1995. Emergency action plans have been prepared and updated as recently as May 2019, ensuring that the dam meets safety guidelines and risk management measures. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection, highlighting the importance of its role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper North Channel Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure that contributes to hydroelectric power generation and water management in Jefferson County, New York. As a significant structure with a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam's risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures underscore the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
90 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
1810 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
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2890cfs |
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