Boise Cascade Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Beaver Falls Croghan Island Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Boise Cascade Lower Dam, located in Beaver Falls, New York, along the Beaver River, was completed in 1865 and serves as a vital hydroelectric facility in the region.
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Summary
This private-owned concrete dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 209 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, contributing to the local energy supply.
With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Boise Cascade Lower Dam is subject to regular state inspections by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Although the dam itself is not regulated by the state, it falls under state jurisdiction and is operated and maintained by private owners. The dam's spillway, with a width of 220 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 18,000 cubic feet per second.
Despite not having a current condition assessment rating, the emergency action plan for Boise Cascade Lower Dam was last revised in September 2020, ensuring that proper measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks. As a historically significant structure with a long-standing presence in the community, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1865 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
324 |
Nid Storage |
209 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Boise Cascade Lower Dam