Lock E9 Rotterdam Junction Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 9, 2026

Lock E9 Rotterdam Junction, located in Schenectady, New York, along the Mohawk River (Erie Canal), is a state-owned hydroelectric structure with a primary purpose of generating power and facilitating navigation.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 530 feet, providing a storage capacity of 6681 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 428 acres within a drainage area of 3248 square miles.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lock E9 Rotterdam Junction has a controlled spillway system with a width of 510 feet, ensuring efficient water flow and minimizing the risk of flooding. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, it has a very high risk assessment rating due to its age and the potential impact on surrounding areas in the event of a failure.

While specific details on the condition assessment and emergency preparedness of Lock E9 Rotterdam Junction are not currently available, the structure undergoes inspections every 3 years to ensure its safety and functionality. With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management and energy production, this dam serves as a key component of the region's infrastructure and highlights the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in sustainable development efforts.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Mohawk River (Erie Canal)

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

428

Drainage Area

3248

Nid Storage

6681

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.