Chateaugay High Fall Reservoir Report
Nearby: Chateaugay Chasm Forge Dam
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Chateaugay High Fall, also known as High Falls Dam, is a captivating structure located in Chateaugay, New York along the Chateaugay River.
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Summary
Built in 1906 for hydroelectric purposes, this concrete, gravity, and masonry dam stands at a height of 63.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 82 feet and a maximum discharge of 3500 cubic feet per second, this dam serves as a key component in the region's water resource management and energy production efforts.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Chateaugay High Fall has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not currently available, but inspections are conducted regularly to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With an emergency action plan last revised in December 2019 and a designated emergency contact procedure in place, the dam is equipped to respond effectively in case of any unforeseen events or natural disasters.
Overall, Chateaugay High Fall is a historical and essential piece of infrastructure in Franklin County, New York, contributing to water resource management, energy production, and flood control efforts in the region. Its strategic location along the Chateaugay River and controlled spillway system make it a vital asset for maintaining water levels and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
88 |
Dam Height |
63.2 |
River Or Stream |
Chateaugay River |
Surface Area |
2.9 |
Drainage Area |
112 |
Nid Storage |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
63 |
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.
Chateaugay High Fall