Watervliet Lower Dam
Key Takeaway
Watervliet Lower Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 108 ft |
| Dam Type | Buttress |
| Max Storage | 53 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,519 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | NY01357 |
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
CITY OF WATERVLIET
Local Government
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Low Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Watervliet Lower Dam?
Watervliet Lower Dam 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 Watervliet Lower Dam?
Watervliet Lower Dam is owned by CITY OF WATERVLIET (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Watervliet Lower Dam built?
Watervliet Lower Dam was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Watervliet Lower Dam?
Watervliet Lower Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Watervliet Lower Dam?
Watervliet Lower Dam 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 Watervliet Lower Dam last inspected?
Watervliet Lower Dam was last inspected on April 17, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.