Forge Dam
Key Takeaway
Forge Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 69.7% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 230 ft |
| Dam Type | Buttress |
| Max Storage | 6.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 568 acres |
| Drainage Area | 101 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,920 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1921 (105 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00540 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
CHATEAUGAY LAKES WATER LEVEL DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Forge Dam?
Forge 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 Forge Dam?
Forge Dam is owned by CHATEAUGAY LAKES WATER LEVEL DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Forge Dam built?
Forge Dam was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Forge Dam?
Forge Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Forge Dam?
Forge Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Forge Dam last inspected?
Forge Dam was last inspected on June 29, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.