One of several waterfalls in the 14,000-plus acres of Letchworth State Park now celebrating its 100th Anniversary. Amid the trees, spanning the gorge (seen in center frame) is the still-active railway bridge, one of the highest in the East.
Genesee
River Gorge. For 17 miles the river moves along its route about 36 miles
south of Rochester in Letchworth State Park. Much of what is seen in this view will
be flooded when, about every seven years, the Genesee River rises dramatically during
spring flood times. The relatively quiet river here flows to the water control
point, the Mount Morris Dam, at the eastern border of Letchworth Park.
Built by the United States Army Corp of Engineers 1948-1952 this "dry" dam provides flood control from here to 67 miles north at Rochester. At peak flood times (about every seven years) water behind the dam can reach its top (about 245 feet above bedrock). The situation shown above is typical for non-flood times and you'll note no accumulation of water behind the dam (to the right). The Genesee River appears to be not much more than a "creek." During summer months, beginning about June 15th, the water may be forced to rise substantially behind the dam to create a picturesque reservoir for the benefit of tourists. Up to 30-days "normal flow" of water can be stored behind the dam.
It's a Big List: Hiking, camping, biking, fishing. Swiming in the state-maintained pools. Picnics using hundreds of tables and out-in-the-field grills. A couple snack bars are available along with the fine-dining restaurant, Glen Iris Inn. Games on state-provided playgrounds. Perhaps, just sit back and enjoy nature, study rock formations, and observe the environment and wildlif. Bring binoculars and camera! There are a couple neat gift shops for souvenirs and a couple "Visitor Centers." Tours of the dam are available. Off-season, some winter sports are possible. The park is open year around, 6AM to 11PM. Admission fees charged at peak tourist times. Fees for cabins and camping.
You'd be surprised! Environmental protection doesn't just happen. The Genesee River drains a good portion of Central New York as far south as nothern Pennsylvania. Allegheny's work includes helping industries, businessess, schools, and government facilities protect the streams that feed into the Genesee and other waterways. We safely remove and treat hazardous waste, train on how to safely transport hazardous materials, and go in to remediate and clean-up where others have made mistakes. After you tour our Allegheny Viewpoints, you're invited to tour our Home Page to learn more about what we do year around, and how we may be able to help you save the environment---and---save money!
Allegheny Environmental
Services, Inc.
The Right Chemistry...For Environmental Protection
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