Gouldtown - Mill 5 West Channel Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Gouldtown - Mill 5 West Channel, located in Lewis, New York, is a captivating hydroelectric structure with a concrete dam type and a Multi-Arch core design.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1915, this dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. Situated on the Moose River, it serves as a crucial element in maintaining water resources and energy generation in the area.

Managed by a private owner, Gouldtown - Mill 5 West Channel is under Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversight, ensuring its operational efficiency and safety. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam plays a vital role in the local community. Despite its age, the structure has not undergone recent condition assessments, highlighting the need for continued maintenance and monitoring to ensure its long-term sustainability in the face of changing climates.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Gouldtown - Mill 5 West Channel lies in its contribution to renewable energy production and water management in the region. By understanding its design, purpose, and operational history, we can appreciate the interconnectedness of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and sustainable resource utilization in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

15

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

15
       
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.