Hastings Power Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burden Lake Dam Kane Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Hastings Power Dam, located in Snyders Corners, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1920 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
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Summary
Situated on the Wynantskill River, this dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 125 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of December 2019, it is subject to regular inspections and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Despite its age, the Hastings Power Dam continues to serve as a vital source of hydroelectric power in the region, contributing to both energy production and irrigation purposes. Its uncontrolled spillway, 30 feet wide, ensures the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. While facing moderate risks, efforts are in place to manage these risks effectively, ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam for the surrounding community and environment. As a privately-owned structure, the dam remains an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Hastings Power Dam presents a fascinating case study of a historic concrete dam with a rich legacy of contributing to sustainable energy production and water management. As efforts continue to maintain and improve its condition, the dam represents a blend of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship, showcasing the importance of balancing the dual goals of power generation and ecological preservation in the face of changing climate dynamics. Its location on the Wynantskill River adds to the dam's significance as a key player in the broader water resource landscape of Rensselaer County, New York.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
125 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
WYNANTSKILL |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Valatie Kill Near Nassau Ny
|
23cfs |
Hudson River At Green Island Ny
|
6390cfs |
Normans Kill At Albany Ny
|
78cfs |
Mohawk River At Cohoes Ny
|
3550cfs |
Hudson River At Lock 1 Near Waterford Ny
|
4430cfs |
Hudson R Above Lock 1 Nr Waterford Ny
|
3930cfs |
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.
Hastings Power Dam
Forbes Road Rensselaer