Newton Falls Upper
Key Takeaway
Newton Falls Upper is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 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 | 21 ft (taller than 61.3% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 5.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 650 acres |
| Drainage Area | 172 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,732 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00472 |
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, L.P.
Private
Nearby Dams
Newton Falls Lower
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 25 ftNewton Falls Stabilization Pond #3 Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 22 ftNewton Falls Stabilization Pond #4 Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 35 ftChaumont Swamp Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 100 ftBenson Mines Plant Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 38 ftBrowns Falls
St. Lawrence, NY
High Hazard 69 ftBenson Mines Little River Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Significant Hazard 44 ftTwin Lakes Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 7 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Newton Falls Upper?
Newton Falls Upper 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 Newton Falls Upper?
Newton Falls Upper is owned by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, L.P. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Newton Falls Upper built?
Newton Falls Upper 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 Newton Falls Upper?
Newton Falls Upper serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Newton Falls Upper?
Newton Falls Upper 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 Newton Falls Upper last inspected?
Newton Falls Upper was last inspected on August 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.