Summary
Lawrence County, New York, Ogdensburg is home to a significant hydroelectric dam on the Oswegatchie River. Built in 1910, this gravity dam stands at 12 feet high and stretches over 504.4 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1450 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1592 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and energy production in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 349 feet and three slide gates for water release. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. While the current condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety.
Local climate and water resource enthusiasts in Ogdensburg have a keen interest in the hydroelectric dam's operations and its impact on the surrounding environment. The presence of this historic structure not only provides renewable energy but also serves as a vital component of the region's water infrastructure. As the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and energy production, stakeholders remain vigilant in ensuring its safe and efficient operation for the benefit of the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
504.4 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Oswegatchie River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
290 |
Drainage Area |
1592 |
Nid Storage |
1450 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ogdensburg
Maple City Trail Ogdensburg