Emeryville Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hollow Dam Talcville
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Emeryville, also known as Hampshire Dam, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Gouverneur, New York along the Oswegatchie River.
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Summary
Built in 1959, this gravity dam stands at 25 feet tall and stretches 205 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 307 acre-feet with a surface area of 35 acres. Operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Emeryville serves as a key piece of infrastructure for harnessing hydroelectric power in the region.
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Emeryville is considered to be in good condition, though specific details on its structural assessment are not available. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 183 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1731 cubic feet per second. Despite not being regulated by the state, Emeryville undergoes regular inspections by FERC to ensure its safe operation and compliance with regulatory standards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Emeryville provides a fascinating example of how private hydroelectric infrastructure contributes to the renewable energy landscape in New York. As a gravity dam with a long history of operation, it showcases the potential for sustainable energy generation while also highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and inspection to mitigate risks associated with dam failures. With its location in the picturesque St. Lawrence County and its role in the local water management system, Emeryville represents an important piece of the region's environmental and energy landscape.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
205 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Oswegatchie River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
35 |
Drainage Area |
626 |
Nid Storage |
307 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
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.
Emeryville
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