Norfolk Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Norfolk Dam, located in Norfolk, New York, is a privately owned concrete structure built in 1965 on the Raquette River for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 29 feet tall and stretching 500 feet in length, the dam provides a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 1,066 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge rate of 22,030 cubic feet per second.

Although last inspected in 1997, Norfolk Dam holds a high hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The dam's spillway, measuring 346 feet in width, is uncontrolled. Despite not being state regulated, the dam is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection. The emergency action plan (EAP) for Norfolk Dam was last revised in December 2020, with the overall condition of the dam marked as "Not Rated." For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Norfolk Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, hydroelectricity, and environmental risk management in a picturesque corner of New York state.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

RAQUETTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

1066

Nid Storage

108

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.