Lock 33 Dam Erie Canal Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lock 33 Dam on the Erie Canal in Pittsford, New York, stands as a testament to the region's water resource management and hydroelectric capabilities.
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Summary
Built in 1908, this concrete dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power while also supporting navigation along the New York State Barge Canal. With a height of 40 feet and a length of 88 feet, Lock 33 Dam holds a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 200 acres.
Despite its historical significance and essential role in the region's water infrastructure, Lock 33 Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment. Classified as having poor structural conditions and a high hazard potential, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The latest assessment in October 2020 revealed the need for improvements, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols for this critical water resource asset.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience, Lock 33 Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts to understand the intersection of historical engineering feats, modern hydroelectric technology, and the ongoing challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental risks. With its location in Monroe County, New York, Lock 33 Dam represents a vital piece of the region's water management system, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and proactive maintenance in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
88 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
NEW YORK STATE BARGE CANAL |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
200 |
Nid Storage |
2000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
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