La Fargeville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

The La Fargeville Dam, located in La Fargeville, New York, is a private-owned structure on the Chaumont River.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 11 feet high and stretches 70 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 141 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is under state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the NYS DEC. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 45 feet, and the maximum discharge capacity is 725 cubic feet per second. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in July 1998, with updates on emergency action plans and risk management measures pending.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the La Fargeville Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. With its location on the Chaumont River and its role in water storage and control, this structure serves as a vital component in the local water resource system. Monitoring its condition, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness are crucial aspects of ensuring the safety and efficacy of the dam for both human and environmental interests.

Dam Length

70

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

CHAUMONT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Nid Storage

141

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.