Lewiston Reservoir Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

The Lewiston Reservoir Dike, located in Lewiston, New York, is a key structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and has a structural height of 84 feet. With a hydraulic height of 119 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Niagara River.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this high-hazard potential structure is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and integrity. Despite its age, the Lewiston Reservoir Dike continues to serve its purpose effectively, with a storage capacity of 76,000 acre-feet. With its impressive dimensions and strategic location, this dam is a testament to the ingenuity of its designers and the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role of the Lewiston Reservoir Dike in harnessing the power of water for energy production while also safeguarding the surrounding environment. As a vital component of the region's infrastructure, this dam exemplifies the intersection of technology, engineering, and environmental stewardship in the quest for a more sustainable future. Its continued operation and maintenance are essential for ensuring the resilience of the local ecosystem and the reliability of the hydroelectric power supply in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

34320

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

Niagara River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

119

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

76000

Structural Height

84

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

119
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.