Sherman Island
Key Takeaway
Sherman Island is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 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 | 80 ft (taller than 97.1% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 1,538 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 9.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 305 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,785 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 115,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00141 |
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
Brookfield Renewable Power LLC NYRO
Private
Nearby Dams
Spier Falls
Warren, NY
High Hazard 146 ftFeeder Dam
Warren, NY
Low Hazard 21 ftHalfway Brook Reservoir Dam
Warren, NY
Significant Hazard 28 ftSaddle Lake Dam
Saratoga, NY
Significant Hazard 23 ftKeenan Reservoir Dam
Warren, NY
High Hazard 30 ftWilkie Intake Reservoir Dam
Warren, NY
Significant Hazard 34 ftButler Storage Reservoir Dam
Warren, NY
High Hazard 83 ftLake Bonita Dam
Saratoga, NY
Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sherman Island?
Sherman Island 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 Sherman Island?
Sherman Island is owned by Brookfield Renewable Power LLC NYRO (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sherman Island built?
Sherman Island was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Sherman Island?
Sherman Island serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sherman Island?
Sherman Island has a dam height of 80 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 Sherman Island last inspected?
Sherman Island was last inspected on August 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.