Upper Mechanicville
Key Takeaway
Upper Mechanicville is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1882 and is 144 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 19 ft (taller than 53.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 1,220 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 260 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4,500 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 130,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1882 (144 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00215 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
New York State Canal Corporation
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Upper Mechanicville?
Upper Mechanicville is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Upper Mechanicville?
Upper Mechanicville is owned by New York State Canal Corporation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Mechanicville built?
Upper Mechanicville was completed in 1882, making it 144 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 Mechanicville?
Upper Mechanicville serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Mechanicville?
Upper Mechanicville has a dam height of 19 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 Mechanicville last inspected?
Upper Mechanicville was last inspected on September 23, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.