Boise Cascade Lower Dam

BEAVER RIVER· Lewis, New York· Built 1865· Concrete· 14 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Boise Cascade Lower Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1865 and is 161 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 14 ft (taller than 33.5% in NY)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage209 acre-ft
Normal Storage28 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area324 sq mi
Max Discharge18,000 cfs
Year Completed1865 (161 years old)
NID IDNY00756

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 8, 2000
State Regulated: No
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

EAGLE CREEK HYDRO POWER, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Boise Cascade Lower Dam?

Boise Cascade Lower Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Boise Cascade Lower Dam?

Boise Cascade Lower Dam is owned by EAGLE CREEK HYDRO POWER, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Boise Cascade Lower Dam built?

Boise Cascade Lower Dam was completed in 1865, making it 161 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Boise Cascade Lower Dam?

Boise Cascade Lower Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Boise Cascade Lower Dam?

Boise Cascade Lower Dam has a dam height of 14 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Boise Cascade Lower Dam last inspected?

Boise Cascade Lower Dam was last inspected on August 8, 2000. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.