Harrower Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Harrower Lower Dam, located in Hagaman, New York, along the Chuctanunda Creek, was completed in 1898 and serves as a private hydroelectric facility.
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Summary
This concrete dam stands at 8 feet high and spans 50 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols are in place.
With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Harrower Lower Dam remains a critical structure in the region's water resource management. Despite not being condition-rated, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not currently assessed. The dam's spillway, with a width of 40 feet, operates as uncontrolled, allowing for necessary discharge during peak flow events. Congressman Paul Tonko represents the area and oversees federal interests related to this dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harrower Lower Dam offers a glimpse into the historical infrastructure that continues to play a vital role in renewable energy production and water management in Montgomery County, New York. As efforts to modernize and improve dam safety continue, the importance of balancing environmental concerns with hydroelectric power generation remains a key focus for stakeholders and regulators alike. This dam stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of early 20th-century engineering and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for sustainable water resource management practices in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
50 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
CHUCTANUNDA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Glowegee Creek At West Milton Ny
|
67cfs |
Schoharie Creek At Burtonsville Ny
|
1840cfs |
Canajoharie Creek Nr Canajoharie Ny
|
40cfs |
Otsquago Creek At Fort Plain Ny
|
105cfs |
Mohawk River At Cohoes Ny
|
13600cfs |
Sacandaga River Near Hope Ny
|
1480cfs |
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.
Harrower Lower Dam