South Edwards Reservoir Report
Nearby: Niagara Mohawk Power Dam Talcville
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
South Edwards is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in St.
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Summary
Lawrence, New York, along the East Branch Oswegatchie River. Built in 1914, this concrete dam stands at a height of 48 feet and has a unique multi-arch core design. With a storage capacity of 851 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5104 cubic feet per second, South Edwards plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and generating clean energy for the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, South Edwards is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's emergency action plan is up to date and meets guidelines for potential inundation events. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 277 square miles, relies on South Edwards for water resource management and flood control, highlighting the dam's essential role in climate resilience and environmental stewardship.
As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, the intricate details of South Edwards's design and operational characteristics offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and natural resource management. The dam's historical significance, combined with its modern-day role in supporting renewable energy production and water management, underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring vital infrastructure to meet the challenges of a changing climate and growing energy needs.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
214.5 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
East Branch Oswegatchie River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
81 |
Hydraulic Height |
52.8 |
Drainage Area |
277 |
Nid Storage |
851 |
Structural Height |
51 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
53 |
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.
South Edwards