Norfolk Dam

RAQUETTE RIVER· St. Lawrence, New York· Built 1965· Concrete· 29 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Norfolk Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 29 ft (taller than 77.5% in NY)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage108 acre-ft
Normal Storage80 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
Drainage Area1,066 sq mi
Max Discharge22,030 cfs
Year Completed1965 (61 years old)
NID IDNY00582

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 29, 1997
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Norfolk Dam?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk Dam?

Norfolk Dam is owned by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Norfolk Dam built?

Norfolk Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Norfolk Dam?

Norfolk Dam 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 Norfolk Dam?

Norfolk Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Norfolk Dam last inspected?

Norfolk Dam was last inspected on July 29, 1997. 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.