Lock E-16 Dam At Rocky Rift Reservoir Report
Nearby: East Canada Lake Dam Inghams Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Lock E-16 Dam at Rocky Rift, located in Little Falls, New York, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the ERIE CANAL-MOHAWK RIVER.
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Summary
Built in 1926, this state-regulated dam stands 6 feet tall and spans 361 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 1,275 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway, measuring 345 feet wide, helps manage water levels during peak flow events, making it a significant asset in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
Despite its age, the Lock E-16 Dam remains in a condition that has not been officially rated. However, its hazard potential is deemed significant, with a very high risk assessment level. While the dam is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, it is subject to state oversight and regular inspections by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. With its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, this dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the community and infrastructure downstream from potential inundation and water-related disasters.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Lock E-16 Dam at Rocky Rift a fascinating structure due to its historical significance and critical role in managing water levels along the ERIE CANAL-MOHAWK RIVER. As a state-owned and regulated facility, it highlights the importance of infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and protecting the environment. With ongoing monitoring and inspections, this dam continues to serve as a key component in the region's water management system, ensuring the safety and well-being of nearby residents and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
361 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
ERIE CANAL-MOHAWK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
85 |
Nid Storage |
1275 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
6 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Lock E-16 Dam At Rocky Rift