Lock C-12

Champlain Canal· Washington, New York· Built 1911· Other· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Navigation State Government

Key Takeaway

Lock C-12 is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 61.3% in NY)
Dam Length170 ft
Dam TypeOther
Max Storage2.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.9K acre-ft
Surface Area240 acres
Drainage Area429 sq mi
Max Discharge17,800 cfs
Year Completed1911 (115 years old)
NID IDNY00796

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 17, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

New York State Canal Corporation

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lock C-12?

Lock C-12 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 Lock C-12?

Lock C-12 is owned by New York State Canal Corporation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lock C-12 built?

Lock C-12 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 Lock C-12?

Lock C-12 serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lock C-12?

Lock C-12 has a dam height of 21 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 Lock C-12 last inspected?

Lock C-12 was last inspected on May 17, 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.