The Albion Waste Gate & Weir Dam, also known as the Barge Canal, is a state-owned structure located in Albion, New York.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1911, this concrete dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 115 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for navigation on the WEST BRANCH SANDY CREEK, and it holds a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 100 acre-feet.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), the Albion Waste Gate & Weir Dam is a regulated and inspected structure with a significant hazard potential. Its spillway type is controlled, with a width of 60 feet, and it is under the jurisdiction of the Buffalo District. Despite being deemed in a "Very High (1)" risk category, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, indicating a need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Albion Waste Gate & Weir Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic dam with important navigation functions in New York State. Its age, design, and risk assessment highlight the complexities of managing water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions and safety considerations. With its location in the picturesque town of Albion and its role in regulating water levels on the WEST BRANCH SANDY CREEK, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of engineering, conservation, and public safety in the context of water resource management.
Year Completed |
1911 |
Dam Length |
115 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Nid Storage |
107 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |