Mead Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Mead Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 60 ft (taller than 94.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 615 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 74 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,827 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00237 |
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
CITY OF PLATTSBURGH
Local Government
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Low Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mead Reservoir Dam?
Mead Reservoir 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 Mead Reservoir Dam?
Mead Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF PLATTSBURGH (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mead Reservoir Dam built?
Mead Reservoir Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Mead Reservoir Dam?
Mead Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mead Reservoir Dam?
Mead Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 60 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 Mead Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Mead Reservoir Dam was last inspected on September 18, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.