Benson Mines Little River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Benson Mines Little River Dam, located in Star Lake, New York, stands as a crucial water resource infrastructure for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1948, this Earth-type dam boasts a height of 44 feet and a length of 1420 feet, with a storage capacity of 2380 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Little River, serving as a controlled spillway mechanism to regulate water flow for agricultural needs in the region.
Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being categorized as having a "Significant" hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently "Not Rated," highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 13.7 square miles, relies on the dam's normal storage capacity of 1660 acre-feet to sustain agricultural activities and maintain water resources in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Benson Mines Little River Dam serves as a focal point of interest due to its historical significance and critical role in sustaining irrigation practices in St. Lawrence County, New York. With its very high risk assessment rating, efforts to enhance emergency preparedness and risk management strategies are vital to ensure the continued functionality and safety of this essential water infrastructure. The dam's presence underscores the intricate balance between water resource utilization, environmental conservation, and community resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
1420 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
200 |
Drainage Area |
13.7 |
Nid Storage |
2380 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Oswegatchie 45
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Oswegatchie 44
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Oswegatchie 43
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Oswegatchie 42
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Oswegatchie 41/High Rock
|
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Cranberry Lake 41
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Benson Mines Little River Dam