Prospect Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Prospect Dam, located in Trenton Falls, New York, is a key hydroelectric facility on the West Canada Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1959, this concrete, gravity, and rockfill dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans 330 feet across, with a storage capacity of 3,250 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, making it a vital resource for the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Prospect Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of very high, the dam plays a critical role in flood control and water management in the area. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate effectively, providing essential services to both the local community and the surrounding environment.
The dam's controlled spillway, outlet gates, and associated structures contribute to its overall efficiency and reliability. With a history of successful operation and maintenance, Prospect Dam remains a significant piece of infrastructure in New York, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
West Canada Creek |
Surface Area |
175 |
Drainage Area |
375 |
Nid Storage |
3250 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 7, Tainter (radial) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
52 |
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.
Prospect