Setting Pole Rapids Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Piercefield Little Simon Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Setting Pole Rapids Dam, located in Piercefield, New York, along the Raquette River, is a concrete structure completed in 1934 with a height of 18 feet and a length of 229 feet.
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Summary
The dam serves various purposes, including recreation and other uses, and has a normal storage capacity of 19,600 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment, indicating a need for proper risk management measures.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Setting Pole Rapids Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 204 feet wide. The dam has not been inspected since July 1997, and its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." While the dam does not have an emergency action plan in place, it meets state permitting and inspection requirements.
Overall, the Setting Pole Rapids Dam presents an intriguing case for water resource and climate enthusiasts, with its historical significance dating back to the 1930s and its role in the local ecosystem along the Raquette River. The dam's moderate risk assessment highlights the need for continued monitoring and potential upgrades to ensure its safety and effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions and evolving regulatory standards.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
229 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
RAQUETTE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
7000 |
Drainage Area |
720 |
Nid Storage |
36400 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raquette River At Piercefield Ny
|
1060cfs |
Raquette River At South Colton Ny
|
570cfs |
Oswegatchie River Near Oswegatchie Ny
|
195cfs |
Hudson River Near Newcomb Ny
|
124cfs |
W Br St. Regis R Nr Parishville Ny
|
211cfs |
Buck Creek
|
1cfs |
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.
Setting Pole Rapids Dam
Tupper Lake