Vischer Ferry
Key Takeaway
Vischer Ferry is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 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 | 30 ft (taller than 78.3% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 1,919 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 27.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 25.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,050 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,385 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 548,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00170 |
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
New York State Canal Corporation
State Government
Nearby Dams
Colonie Dam
Saratoga, NY
High Hazard 57 ftValencia Lane Dam
Saratoga, NY
Low Hazard 15 ftLisha Kill Dam
Albany, NY
Significant Hazard 20 ftRensselaer Lake Dam
Albany, NY
High Hazard 30 ftCohoes Reservoir #3 Dam
Albany, NY
High Hazard 20 ftCrescent - Dam A
Albany, NY
High Hazard 53 ftWatervliet Balancing Reservoir Dam
Albany, NY
Significant Hazard 20 ftWaldens Pond Dam
Albany, NY
Low Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Vischer Ferry?
Vischer Ferry 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 Vischer Ferry?
Vischer Ferry 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 Vischer Ferry built?
Vischer Ferry was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Vischer Ferry?
Vischer Ferry 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 Vischer Ferry?
Vischer Ferry has a dam height of 30 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 Vischer Ferry last inspected?
Vischer Ferry was last inspected on September 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.