Lake Algonquin
Lake Algonquin is a concrete dam located in Hamilton County, New York, built in 1959. It carries a Significant hazard potential classification and has a satisfactory condition assessment.
About Lake Algonquin
The primary purpose of Lake Algonquin is hydroelectric. The dam generates hydroelectric power by channeling water through turbines, converting the energy of flowing water into electricity. It impounds the Sacandaga River near Wells.
The dam stands 18 feet tall and stretches 239 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 275 acres, has a maximum storage capacity of 2,557 acre-feet, and collects water from a drainage area of 261 square miles. Completed in 1959, the structure is well into its service life at over 50 years old.
This dam has a significant hazard potential classification, meaning that a failure could cause significant economic damage — flooding roads, bridges, or property downstream — but is not expected to result in loss of life. Its condition is rated satisfactory, indicating no existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. An emergency action plan is in place for this dam. The most recent inspection on record was 09/22/2022.
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Location
| State | New York |
| County | Hamilton |
| Nearest City | Wells |
| River/Stream | Sacandaga River |
| Coordinates | 43.39020, -74.29260 |
Physical Characteristics
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| NID Height | 18 ft |
| Dam Height | 18 ft |
| Dam Length | 239 ft |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
Storage & Hydraulics
| NID Storage | 2,557 acre-ft |
| Max Storage | 2,557 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2,557 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 275 acres |
| Drainage Area | 261 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,700 cfs |
| Spillway Type | Controlled |
Ownership & Safety
| Purpose | Hydroelectric |
| Owner Type | Not Listed |
| Hazard Classification | Significant |
| Condition Assessment | Satisfactory |
| Last Inspection | 09/22/2022 |
| Emergency Action Plan | Yes |
Identifiers
| NID ID | NY00172 |
| Federal ID | NY00172 |
| More Info | State Dam Safety Program |