Dexter South Channel Dam

Black River· Jefferson, New York· Built 1925· Concrete· 20 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Dexter South Channel Dam is classified as low hazard in New York. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 56.3% in NY)
Dam Length433 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage1.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.2K acre-ft
Surface Area120 acres
Drainage Area1,900 sq mi
Max Discharge50,000 cfs
Year Completed1925 (101 years old)
NID IDNY00681

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 14, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

Hydro Development Group Acquisition, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Dexter South Channel Dam?

Dexter South Channel Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Dexter South Channel Dam?

Dexter South Channel Dam is owned by Hydro Development Group Acquisition, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Dexter South Channel Dam built?

Dexter South Channel Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Dexter South Channel Dam?

Dexter South Channel 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 Dexter South Channel Dam?

Dexter South Channel Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Dexter South Channel Dam last inspected?

Dexter South Channel Dam was last inspected on June 14, 2018. 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.