Is Niagara Falls Water Diverted at Night?

No, the falls never stop flowing. However, water volume is significantly reduced at night (and during off-peak tourist season) for hydroelectric power generation.

How It Works

• Treaty (1950 Niagara Diversion Treaty): Mandates minimum flow over falls for scenic value: 100,000 ft³/s (day, tourist season), 50,000 ft³/s (night/off-season).
• Diversion: Water is channeled via tunnels to Sir Adam Beck (Ontario) and Robert Moses (NY) power stations—generating ~4.4 GW combined.
• Result: Falls still flow impressively, but less volume; daytime summer flow restored for visitors.

This balance between energy and aesthetics is a unique transboundary resource management achievement.