Robert Moses - Niagara Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Robert Moses - Niagara is a state-owned hydroelectric dam located in Lewiston, New York, along the Niagara River.


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Summary

Designed by Chas. T. Main and completed in 1963, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 97 feet and stretches 1100 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 5960 acre-feet and a surface area of 71 acres, it plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Robert Moses - Niagara is a significant contributor to the renewable energy sector in the area. Despite its high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2 (high), the dam has not had any major incidents reported as of the last inspection in September 2020. With its strategic location and efficient operations, the dam continues to be a key player in water resource management and climate action efforts in the region.

As a symbol of innovation and sustainability, Robert Moses - Niagara stands as a testament to the power of harnessing water resources for clean energy production. Its impact on the local community and environment underscores the importance of responsible dam construction and operation in mitigating climate change and ensuring a secure water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

97

River Or Stream

Niagara River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

5960

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

97
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.