Ballard Mill Reservoir Report
Nearby: Memorial Recreation Pond Dam Macomb
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Ballard Mill, located in Malone, New York, is a privately owned hydroelectric dam on the Salmon River.
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Summary
Built in 1901, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 303 feet. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 159 square miles, Ballard Mill plays a significant role in generating hydroelectric power in the region.
Managed by Bellows - Towers Hydro, Inc., Ballard Mill has three slide gates as outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet. The dam poses a significant hazard potential and is inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. While the condition assessment of the dam is not available, an emergency action plan was last revised in November 2020. With a moderate risk assessment rating, Ballard Mill serves as a crucial infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable energy generation.
As one of the key structures in New York District's water resource management, Ballard Mill contributes to the overall energy production in the state. With its historical significance and modern operational standards, this hydroelectric dam is a focal point for those passionate about the intersection of water resources and climate resilience. Stay updated on Ballard Mill's inspection reports and emergency action plans to witness how this essential infrastructure adapts to changing environmental conditions and regulatory requirements.
Year Completed |
1901 |
Dam Length |
303 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Salmon River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
159 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Ballard Mill