Potsdam - West Dam
Key Takeaway
Potsdam - West Dam is classified as low hazard in New York. It was completed in 1990 and is 36 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 11 ft (taller than 19.5% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 220 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 750 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 750 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 300 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,031 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1990 (36 years old) |
| NID ID | NY01257 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Village of Potsdam, NY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Potsdam - East Dam
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 7 ftSissonville
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 16 ftHewittville
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 18 ftSugar Island
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 35 ftUnionville
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 20 ftHannawa
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 34 ftNorwood
St. Lawrence, NY
High Hazard 24 ftYaleville
St. Lawrence, NY
Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Potsdam - West Dam?
Potsdam - West Dam 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 Potsdam - West Dam?
Potsdam - West Dam is owned by Village of Potsdam, NY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Potsdam - West Dam built?
Potsdam - West Dam was completed in 1990, making it 36 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 Potsdam - West Dam?
Potsdam - West Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Navigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Debris Control, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Potsdam - West Dam?
Potsdam - West Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Potsdam - West Dam last inspected?
Potsdam - West Dam was last inspected on July 17, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.