Lock 29 Dam Barge Canal Reservoir Report
Nearby: Palmyra Dam Harrison Spillway Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lock 29 Dam on the Barge Canal in Palmyra, New York, is a state-owned structure primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and navigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1912, this concrete dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a length of 69 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1050 acre-feet. The dam is located in Wayne County along the Barge Canal, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Lock 29 Dam is considered to be in fair condition, although it has not been formally rated. The spillway width of 55 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper water management in the canal system. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, it undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its operational integrity and safety standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lock 29 Dam serves as an important component of New York's infrastructure for both energy production and transportation along the historic Barge Canal.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
69 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
BARGE CANAL |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
70 |
Nid Storage |
1050 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Lock 29 Dam Barge Canal
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