Lewiston Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Lewiston is a state-owned hydroelectric dam located in Niagara, New York, along the Niagara River.
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Summary
Completed in 1963, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 155 feet and has a storage capacity of 76,000 acre-feet. Operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lewiston serves as a vital source of renewable energy in the region, harnessing the power of the river to generate electricity.
With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2, Lewiston is closely monitored and inspected by federal regulators to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a key role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area. As part of the Buffalo District, Lewiston contributes to the overall hydroelectric infrastructure in New York, providing clean energy and flood control benefits to the surrounding communities.
As a multi-arch dam with a length of 975 feet, Lewiston exemplifies the innovative engineering and sustainable practices that are essential for effective water resource management. With its high hazard potential and significant storage capacity, this hydroelectric facility underscores the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures in safeguarding our water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Lewiston stands as a testament to the critical role that hydroelectric infrastructure plays in promoting sustainability and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
975 |
Dam Height |
155 |
River Or Stream |
Niagara River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
76000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
155 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ellicott Creek Below Williamsville Ny
|
182cfs |
Tonawanda Creek At Rapids Ny
|
126cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Gardenville Ny
|
417cfs |
Cazenovia Creek At Ebenezer Ny
|
102cfs |
Cayuga Creek Nr Lancaster Ny
|
582cfs |
Tonawanda Creek At Attica Ny
|
493cfs |
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.
Lewiston
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