Chateaugay Chasm Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chateaugay High Fall Forge Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Chateaugay Chasm, also known as Chasm Power Company Dam, is a private hydroelectric facility located on the Chateaugay River in Brayton Hollow, Franklin, New York.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1954, this concrete dam stands at a height of 62.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, utilizing a multi-arch design with a spillway width of 42 feet. The facility's maximum discharge capacity is 2000 cubic feet per second, serving a drainage area of 118 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent modifications and its condition assessment is currently not available. While the facility meets regulatory guidelines for emergency preparedness, specific details related to emergency action plans and risk management measures are not provided in the available data.
Overall, Chateaugay Chasm represents a significant hydroelectric infrastructure in New York, contributing to the state's renewable energy portfolio and water resource management. Enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in water infrastructure and climate resilience will find this dam's operational details and regulatory oversight of great interest, highlighting the intersection of energy production, environmental conservation, and emergency preparedness in the face of potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
40 |
Dam Height |
62.5 |
River Or Stream |
Chateaugay River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1.8 |
Drainage Area |
118 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
63 |
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.
Chateaugay Chasm