Upper Beaver Falls
Key Takeaway
Upper Beaver Falls is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 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 | 27 ft (taller than 74.7% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 328 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 800 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 324 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00300 |
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
Algonquin Power (Beaver Falls), LLC
Private
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High Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Beaver Falls?
Upper Beaver Falls 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 Upper Beaver Falls?
Upper Beaver Falls is owned by Algonquin Power (Beaver Falls), LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Beaver Falls built?
Upper Beaver Falls was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Upper Beaver Falls?
Upper Beaver Falls 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 Upper Beaver Falls?
Upper Beaver Falls has a dam height of 27 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 Upper Beaver Falls last inspected?
Upper Beaver Falls was last inspected on June 16, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.