Upper & Lower Lakes Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Heuvelton Pyrites Intake
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
Upper & Lower Lakes Dam #1 is a state-owned structure located in Rensselaer Falls, New York, along Indian Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 1900 feet in length, creating a fish and wildlife pond that serves as its primary purpose. The dam has a storage capacity of 9590 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 520 acres, providing vital habitat for local flora and fauna.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Upper & Lower Lakes Dam #1 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 18 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 210 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Overall, Upper & Lower Lakes Dam #1 serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation in the St. Lawrence County area. With its strategic location and purposeful design, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting biodiversity in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to continue monitoring and managing this structure to uphold its environmental benefits and safeguard against potential risks.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1900 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
520 |
Drainage Area |
38 |
Nid Storage |
9590 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Upper & Lower Lakes Dam #1