Rainbow
Key Takeaway
Rainbow is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 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 | 82 ft (taller than 97.4% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 2,677 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 12.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 715 acres |
| Drainage Area | 929 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 82,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00257 |
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
Five Falls
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High Hazard 53 ftSouth Colton
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High Hazard 42 ftBlake
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High Hazard 80 ftStark Falls Dike G
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Significant Hazard 10 ftCarry Falls Spillway
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High Hazard 76 ftParishville
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Low Hazard 19 ftHigley
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High Hazard 37 ftAllens Falls
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High Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rainbow?
Rainbow 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 Rainbow?
Rainbow is owned by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, L.P. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rainbow built?
Rainbow was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Rainbow?
Rainbow serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rainbow?
Rainbow has a dam height of 82 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 Rainbow last inspected?
Rainbow was last inspected on June 8, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.