Lock E-17 Dam At Little Falls Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Lock E-17 Dam at Little Falls, situated on the Mohawk River in Herkimer County, New York, stands as a significant hydroelectric structure completed in 1982.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a height of 60 feet and a controlled spillway width of 50 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 7,100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25 acres.
The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, contributing to the renewable energy industry in the area. Despite its "Significant" hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, and it undergoes inspections every four years to ensure its structural integrity and continued safe operation. With a very high risk assessment rating, the emergency action plan for Lock E-17 Dam was last revised in 2011, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and risk management measures in the face of potential emergencies.
Lock E-17 Dam at Little Falls symbolizes the intersection of water resource management, renewable energy production, and environmental stewardship in New York State. As a key player in the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of balancing energy needs with ecological conservation efforts. Its regulated status and strategic location underscore its critical role in maintaining water quality, flood control, and sustainable resource utilization in the Mohawk River watershed.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
80 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
MOWHAWK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
7100 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
60 |
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.
Lock E-17 Dam At Little Falls