East Canada Lake Dam

EAST CANADA CREEK· Herkimer, New York· Built 1924· Earth· 65 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

East Canada Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1924 and is 102 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 65 ft (taller than 95.6% in NY)
Dam Length1,032 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage5.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.5K acre-ft
Surface Area173 acres
Drainage Area288 sq mi
Max Discharge57,340 cfs
Year Completed1924 (102 years old)
NID IDNY00201

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 7, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of East Canada Lake Dam?

East Canada Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates East Canada Lake Dam?

East Canada Lake Dam is owned by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was East Canada Lake Dam built?

East Canada Lake Dam was completed in 1924, making it 102 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 East Canada Lake Dam?

East Canada Lake 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 East Canada Lake Dam?

East Canada Lake Dam has a dam height of 65 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 East Canada Lake Dam last inspected?

East Canada Lake Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2020. 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.