Belfort Intake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Belfort Taylorville - North Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Belfort Intake, located in Lewis, New York, is a private hydroelectric structure constructed in 1904 on the Beaver River.
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Summary
This concrete dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating, this dam is overseen by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for inspection and regulatory purposes.
Despite its age, Belfort Intake has a solid structural foundation on rock and serves as a vital component in the local water resource management system. With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, this dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the natural energy of the Beaver River. Although it does not have a spillway and has not been modified in recent years, the dam continues to operate safely and efficiently.
Managed by a private entity, Belfort Intake has not undergone recent condition assessments, but its emergency action plan was last revised in 2015. The surrounding area has a low risk of inundation, and the dam is monitored on a regular basis to ensure the safety of the community. As a key player in New York's water infrastructure, Belfort Intake stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
60 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Beaver River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
50 |
Drainage Area |
252 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beaver River At Croghan Ny
|
1270cfs |
Independence River At Donnattsburg Ny
|
214cfs |
West Branch Oswegatchie R Nr Harrisville Ny
|
1370cfs |
Oswegatchie River Near Oswegatchie Ny
|
898cfs |
Black River Near Boonville Ny
|
322cfs |
Black River At Watertown Ny
|
6700cfs |
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.
Belfort Intake