Gouverneur Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Gouverneur, a hydroelectric dam located in St.


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Summary

Lawrence, New York, along the Oswegatchie River, stands as a testament to innovative water resource management. Completed in 1925, this concrete gravity dam boasts a height of 7 feet and a length of 250 feet, with a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 12,400 cubic feet per second. Operated under the jurisdiction of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Gouverneur serves as a key player in ensuring sustainable water usage and climate resilience in the region.

With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Gouverneur is well-equipped to handle emergency situations and potential risks. While specific condition assessment data is not currently available, the dam undergoes regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Managed by the local government and with oversight from federal and state regulatory agencies, Gouverneur exemplifies a collaborative approach to water resource management, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.

As a primary source of hydroelectric power in the region, Gouverneur plays a crucial role in meeting the energy needs of the community while minimizing its environmental impact. With its uncontrolled spillway, the dam is designed to efficiently manage water flow and prevent potential flooding. Overall, Gouverneur stands as a model of responsible water resource management, combining historical significance with modern technology to address the challenges of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Oswegatchie River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

72

Drainage Area

721

Nid Storage

560

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.