Station 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Station 5, also known as Station 5 Headgates Dam, is a public utility located in Rochester, New York, along the Genesee River.


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Summary

Built in 1918, this gravity dam stands at a height of 21.5 feet and has a length of 470 feet, with a storage capacity of 414 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Station 5 presents a very high risk due to its location and age. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 400 feet and various outlet gates for water discharge. While the condition assessment is not available, inspections are conducted every three years to ensure the structure's integrity and safety. Emergency action plans are in place, but the risk management measures and inundation maps are still pending.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Station 5 for its historical significance in hydroelectric power generation and its role in managing the flow of the Genesee River. As a vital infrastructure in the region, understanding the risk factors associated with this dam is crucial for ensuring the safety of nearby communities and the environment. With ongoing evaluations and monitoring, Station 5 continues to play a key role in water resource management and energy production in New York.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

21.5

River Or Stream

Genesee River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

2467

Nid Storage

414

Outlet Gates

Drum - 1, Other Controlled - 4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

22
       
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.