Gouldtown - Mill 5 East Channel Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Gouldtown - Mill 5 East Channel is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Lewis, New York, along the picturesque Moose River.


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Summary

Completed in 1991, this concrete gravity dam stands at 10 feet tall and stretches 120 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a drainage area of 480 square miles. The dam's primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, making it an essential part of New York's renewable energy infrastructure.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Gouldtown - Mill 5 East Channel has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam is inspected every three years, with the last inspection conducted in September 2019. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Overall, Gouldtown - Mill 5 East Channel serves as a valuable resource for both water management and climate enthusiasts, highlighting the importance of sustainable energy production in the face of environmental challenges.

With its scenic location, historical significance, and crucial role in renewable energy production, Gouldtown - Mill 5 East Channel stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate action. As efforts are made to address climate change and promote clean energy solutions, dams like Gouldtown - Mill 5 East Channel play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for New York and beyond.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Moose River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

480

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

10
       
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.