James Thompson
Key Takeaway
James Thompson is classified as low hazard in New York. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 19 ft (taller than 53.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 218 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 280 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 280 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 70 acres |
| Drainage Area | 630 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 10,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00164 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Valley Falls Associates
Private
Nearby Dams
Schaghticoke
Rensselaer, NY
Low Hazard 28 ftTomhannock Reservoir Dam
Rensselaer, NY
High Hazard 68 ftJohnsonville
Rensselaer, NY
High Hazard 39 ftBott Pond Dam
Washington, NY
Low Hazard 10 ftDeep Kill Dam
Rensselaer, NY
Low Hazard 25 ftLock 4 - Stillwater
Rensselaer, NY
Significant Hazard 5 ftMechanicville
Rensselaer, NY
Significant Hazard 26 ftUpper Mechanicville
Saratoga, NY
Significant Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of James Thompson?
James Thompson 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 James Thompson?
James Thompson is owned by Valley Falls Associates (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was James Thompson built?
James Thompson was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 James Thompson?
James Thompson 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 James Thompson?
James Thompson has a dam height of 19 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 James Thompson last inspected?
James Thompson was last inspected on July 12, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.