Utica Harbor Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

The Utica Harbor Dam, located in Utica, New York, along the Mohawk River, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure.


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Summary

Constructed in 1912, this concrete dam stands at 24 feet in height and spans a length of 230 feet, providing a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a spillway width of 190 feet to manage excess water flow during high water events.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Utica Harbor Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated as not yet assessed for its condition, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a moderate level of risk (3), emphasizing the need for continued risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance and practical function of the Utica Harbor Dam in mitigating flood risks along the Mohawk River. As a key infrastructure asset in flood management and navigation, the dam's strategic location and design play a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related hazards. With its state-regulated status and moderate risk assessment, the Utica Harbor Dam serves as a testament to proactive management and resilience in safeguarding water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

MOHAWK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

15

Nid Storage

120

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.