Lock 24 Dam Erie Canal Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lock 24 Dam on the Erie Canal, also known as Baldwinsville Dam, is a historic structure in New York that serves multiple purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1908, this masonry dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 325 feet. It primarily functions for hydroelectric power generation and navigation along the Seneca River. With a storage capacity of 35,000 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 313 acres and drains an area of 3,266 square miles.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Lock 24 Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies, ensuring its operational safety and compliance with standards. Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. With a spillway width of 275 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 23,274 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from flooding. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Lock 24 Dam an intriguing site due to its historical significance and functional importance in the region.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

SENECA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

313

Drainage Area

3266

Nid Storage

35000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.