Niagara Mohawk Power Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: South Edwards Talcville
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
The Niagara Mohawk Power Dam, located on the Oswegatchie River in Fine, New York, is a private hydroelectric facility completed in 1916.
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Summary
With a dam height of 11 feet and a length of 80 feet, this concrete structure serves as a key source of renewable energy in the region. The dam has a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5949 cubic feet per second, contributing to the management of water resources in the area.
Despite being privately owned, the Niagara Mohawk Power Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and inspection, ensuring its safe operation and compliance with regulations. The dam's spillway, with a width of 80 feet, serves as an uncontrolled means of releasing excess water to prevent flooding downstream. With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in both water resource management and climate resiliency efforts in St. Lawrence County, New York.
As a historic structure with a long-standing presence in the community, the Niagara Mohawk Power Dam continues to provide valuable hydroelectric power while also posing challenges in terms of risk management and emergency preparedness. With its strategic location on the Oswegatchie River and its contribution to the region's energy needs, the dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1916 |
Dam Length |
80 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
OSWEGATCHIE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
275 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Niagara Mohawk Power Dam