Elmer

Beaver River· Lewis, New York· Built 1917· Concrete· 23 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Elmer is classified as low hazard in New York. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 66% in NY)
Dam Length263 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage345 acre-ft
Normal Storage345 acre-ft
Surface Area34 acres
Drainage Area250 sq mi
Max Discharge6,400 cfs
Year Completed1917 (109 years old)
NID IDNY00303

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: Yes
Last Inspection: August 9, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Erie Boulevard Hydropower, L.P.

Private

Nearby Dams

Effley

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Taylorville - North Dam

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Belfort

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Soft Maple Terminal

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High Falls - Dike No. 1

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Crystal Lake Dike

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Eagle

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Croghan Island Dam

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Low Hazard 12 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Elmer?

Elmer 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 Elmer?

Elmer is owned by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, L.P. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Elmer built?

Elmer was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Elmer?

Elmer 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 Elmer?

Elmer has a dam height of 23 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 Elmer last inspected?

Elmer was last inspected on August 9, 2022. 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.