Little Falls State Dam - North Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Little Falls State Dam - North, also known as State Diverting Dam (North), is a gravity dam located in Little Falls, New York, along the Mohawk River.
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Summary
Completed in 1894, this historic structure serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes and boasts a masonry construction with a roller-compacted concrete core. With a height of 6.2 feet and a length of 375 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 29,000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the dam presents a significant hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment score of 3. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, it undergoes inspections every year to ensure its safety and functionality. Equipped with a slide gate outlet, the dam contributes to fish and wildlife conservation, recreation, and navigation along the Mohawk River, making it an essential part of the region's water resource infrastructure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Little Falls State Dam - North a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering and its ongoing impact on water management and conservation efforts in the region. As a key player in the hydroelectric industry, the dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of historical preservation, environmental stewardship, and sustainable energy production. With its unique features and significant role in the local ecosystem, this dam is a valuable asset worth exploring for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1894 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
6.2 |
River Or Stream |
Mohawk River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
200 |
Drainage Area |
1348 |
Nid Storage |
800 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
6 |
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.
Little Falls State Dam - North