Living Here: Mt Morris Dam
By: Amanda Ciavarri
Updated: March 21, 2011
Since 1838 people have been calling Mt Morris home.
It is located about 40 miles South of Rochester.
Sitting on the Genesee River Mt Morris is hot to many beautiful and scenic places.
Perhaps one of its most functional landmarks is the Mount Morris Dam.
"I think folks are very proud of this dam. A lot of folks moved to the area during the construction to be a part of it. It's been here, holding strong, for 60 years now," said Steve Winslow, Dam Manager.
The dam was built in 1948-1952. Five Hundred people worked day and night—through winters to construct the 1,028ft across and 145ft tall dam, making it the largest of its kind East of the Mississippi.
It took four years and 24 million dollars to build the Mount Morris Dam and experts say it has saved residence downstream much more than that.
"It's prevented over 1.75 Billion dollars in flood damage since it's been here," said Winslow.
The Genesee River flooded and cause Rochester a lot of damage before the dam was built.
Experts say our area has a serious flood once every seven years, so this dam is vital because today the damage would be catastrophic.
"As soon as we get to a point where there might be some flooding in downstream areas we start taking water in or impounding it," said Winslow.
The dam also gives free tours during the spring and summer months.
They attract about 50,000 visitors each year.
