Forge Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chateaugay High Fall Chateaugay Chasm
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Forge Dam, also known as Chateaugay Lake Dam, is a significant water resource structure located in Brainardsville, New York.
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Summary
Built in 1921, this Buttress-type dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, providing water supply while also regulating the flow of the Chateaugay River. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 230 feet, Forge Dam has a storage capacity of 6816 acre-feet and a surface area of 568 acres, making it a crucial part of the local water infrastructure.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Forge Dam is subject to regular inspections and regulatory oversight to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in fair condition. The dam's spillway, with a width of 102 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the controlled release of water during periods of high flow. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Forge Dam represents a key component of the local water management system in Franklin County, New York. As a vital structure for recreation and water supply, it plays a crucial role in the region's ecosystem and serves as a focal point for outdoor activities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Forge Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the need for continued investment in infrastructure to ensure the safety and well-being of local communities.
Year Completed |
1921 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
CHATEAUGAY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
568 |
Drainage Area |
100.69 |
Nid Storage |
6816 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Forge Dam