Center Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Greenwich Middle Greenwich Dam
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Center Falls, also known as Greenwich Mill Dam, is a privately owned hydroelectric structure located in Greenwich, New York.
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Summary
Built in 1909, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 420 feet across the Battenkill River. With a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 16,166 cubic feet per second, the dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and water supply.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Center Falls is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, and its emergency action plan was last revised in 2011. The dam's spillway, with a width of 226 feet, is uncontrolled, and the structure is primarily made of multi-arch concrete with a rock foundation.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Center Falls offers a glimpse into the historical development of hydroelectric infrastructure in the region and the challenges of managing aging dams for multiple purposes. The dam's location on the Battenkill River and its role in flood risk reduction highlight the importance of effective dam maintenance and regulatory oversight to ensure both safety and environmental sustainability. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Center Falls will play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and meeting the region's energy and water supply needs.
Year Completed |
1909 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
Battenkill River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
40 |
Drainage Area |
405 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Center Falls