New York (State). Water Supply Commission

The maps are part of a storage and power study plan made in response to Chapter 569 of the Laws of 1907, by which the State Water Supply Commission was authorized and directed to devise plans for the progressive development of the water powers under state ownership, in order that these should be controlled and maintained for the public use and benefit, and for the increase of public revenue.

Upon passage of the law, the commission secured the services of an eminent hydraulic engineer, John R. Freeman, and they inspected the Sacandaga, Indian, and Genesee rivers and watersheds to decide upon which to begin the first detailed studies. The result was the decision to make a careful survey of the Sacandaga River for the purpose of building a large storage dam. The commission felt that such a project would decrease annual flood damage; provide a deeper channel for the Hudson, improving navigation and insuring more water for canal needs; assure a minimum flow of water to improve sanitary conditions; provide cheap power for manufacturing and stimulate employment in various industries; and provide income to the state because the use of falling water was more economical than coal.

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