Potsdam - West Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Potsdam - East Dam Sissonville
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Potsdam-West Dam, located in St.
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Summary
Lawrence County, New York, is a concrete gravity dam completed in 1990 for hydroelectric purposes on the Raquette River. With a height of 11 feet and a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet, this dam serves a variety of functions including debris control, fire protection, and water supply. The dam also offers recreational opportunities and contributes to flood risk reduction in the area.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Potsdam-West Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has a spillway width of 200 feet and covers a surface area of 300 acres within a drainage area of 1031 square miles. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Overall, Potsdam-West Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its multiple benefits and regulatory oversight, the dam stands as a key infrastructure asset that supports both the local economy and the environment. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance will be essential to safeguard the dam's integrity and maximize its long-term sustainability for future generations.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
220 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
Raquette River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
300 |
Drainage Area |
1031 |
Nid Storage |
750 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
11 |
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 - West Dam