Alice Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Alice Falls is a privately-owned hydroelectric dam located on the Ausable River in Clinton, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1895, this gravity dam stands at 80 feet tall and has a length of 135 feet, with a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, and it is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Alice Falls poses a manageable level of risk. While the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, it is regularly inspected by the FERC to ensure its structural integrity and safety. In the event of an emergency, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, last revised in November 2020, to guide response efforts and protect downstream communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and functional role of Alice Falls in harnessing renewable energy from the Ausable River. As a key component of New York's hydroelectric infrastructure, this gravity dam contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources for clean energy production. Its location in the picturesque Ausable Chasm adds to the charm of this vital water resource structure, serving as a reminder of the intersection between nature and human innovation in addressing climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

135

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

Ausable River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4.8

Drainage Area

448

Nid Storage

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

80
       
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.