Upper Fulton Lock & Dam 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Fulton Lock & Dam 2, also known as Oswego Falls East & West Dams, is a significant hydroelectric structure located in Fulton, New York on the Oswego River.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this concrete dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 316 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3540 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, and recreation, highlighting its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upper Fulton Lock & Dam 2 has a controlled spillway with a width of 208 feet and six Tainter radial gates for water regulation. With a maximum discharge capacity of 70,000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water flow management in the region. Despite its significant hazard potential and very high risk assessment rating, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure its structural integrity and public safety.

As a key feature of the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Upper Fulton Lock & Dam 2 stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate adaptation, and sustainable energy production. With its historical significance, multi-purpose functionality, and potential risks, this dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the complex interplay between infrastructure, natural resources, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

316

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Oswego River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

580

Drainage Area

5020

Nid Storage

3540

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 6

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

13
       
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.