Kamargo

Black River· Jefferson, New York· Built 1920· Concrete· 12 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Kamargo is classified as low hazard in New York. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 23.2% in NY)
Dam Length821 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage360 acre-ft
Normal Storage360 acre-ft
Surface Area40 acres
Drainage Area1,855 sq mi
Max Discharge48,000 cfs
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDNY00729

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: No
Last Inspection: August 9, 2019
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Erie Boulevard Hydropower, L.P.

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Kamargo?

Kamargo 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 Kamargo?

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

When was Kamargo built?

Kamargo was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Kamargo?

Kamargo 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 Kamargo?

Kamargo has a dam height of 12 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 Kamargo last inspected?

Kamargo was last inspected on August 9, 2019. 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.