Varick Lock & Dam 7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Varick Lock & Dam 7, also known as Varick Dam, is a state-owned structure located on the Oswego River in Oswego, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1926, this masonry dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 736 feet in length. With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, the dam also supports navigation activities along the river.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Varick Lock & Dam 7 has a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 18,000 cubic feet per second. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and is considered to have a significant hazard potential. Although no recent condition assessment is available, the dam is inspected regularly by federal authorities to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety.

With a moderate risk rating and a designated emergency action plan in place, Varick Lock & Dam 7 plays a vital role in water resource management and energy production in the region. As a historic structure that has been serving the community for nearly a century, it continues to be a key component of the local infrastructure and a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of hydroelectric power generation and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

736

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Oswego River

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

5097

Nid Storage

210

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

14
       
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.