Potsdam - East Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Potsdam - West Dam Sissonville
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Potsdam - East Dam, located on the Raquette River in New York, was completed in 1903 and serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, debris control, water supply, and recreation.
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Summary
This masonry dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a length of 165 feet, with a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3). The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 165 feet, and the dam is equipped with a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. The surrounding area has a surface area of 300 acres and a drainage area of 1,031 square miles. The dam's condition assessment is not available, but emergency action plans were last revised in 2012.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Potsdam - East Dam represents a critical piece of infrastructure that plays a key role in managing water resources and providing essential services to the surrounding communities. With its long history and diverse set of purposes, this dam showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam, it serves as a reminder of the interconnected nature of water resources and the need for proactive stewardship in the face of environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1903 |
Dam Length |
165 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
Raquette River |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
300 |
Drainage Area |
1031 |
Nid Storage |
750 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Raquette River At Raymondville Ny
|
2010cfs |
Raquette River At South Colton Ny
|
360cfs |
Grass River At Chase Mills Ny
|
1350cfs |
W Br St. Regis R Nr Parishville Ny
|
211cfs |
St. Regis River At Brasher Center Ny
|
588cfs |
Oswegatchie River Near Heuvelton Ny
|
1250cfs |
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.
Potsdam - East Dam