Inghams Dam
Key Takeaway
Inghams Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 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 | 125 ft (taller than 99.1% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 685 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 4.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 188 acres |
| Drainage Area | 278 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 21,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1911 (115 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00183 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable
Private
Nearby Dams
Dolgeville
Herkimer, NY
Low Hazard 20 ftDaniel Green Company Dam
Herkimer, NY
Low Hazard 20 ftEast Canada Lake Dam
Herkimer, NY
High Hazard 65 ftBeaver Brook Site #1 Dam
Herkimer, NY
High Hazard 36 ftLock E-16 Dam At Rocky Rift
Herkimer, NY
Significant Hazard 6 ftLock E-17 Dam At Little Falls
Herkimer, NY
Significant Hazard 60 ftLittle Falls Dist Reservoir Dam
Herkimer, NY
Significant Hazard 32 ftLittle Falls Reservoir Dam
Herkimer, NY
Significant Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Inghams Dam?
Inghams 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 Inghams Dam?
Inghams 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 Inghams Dam built?
Inghams Dam was completed in 1911, making it 115 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 Inghams Dam?
Inghams Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Inghams Dam?
Inghams Dam has a dam height of 125 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 Inghams Dam last inspected?
Inghams Dam was last inspected on December 7, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.