Kensico Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kensico Dam, located in White Plains, New York, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction and water supply management in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1916, this concrete dam stands at a height of 168 feet, with a length of 1843 feet, and has a maximum storage capacity of 116,560 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Bronx River, covering a surface area of 2218 acres and draining an area of 12.8 square miles.

With a highly rated hazard potential and very high risk assessment, Kensico Dam is closely monitored and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 50 feet to manage excess water flow during emergencies. Despite not having a current condition assessment rating, the dam undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality in flood control operations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kensico Dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction and water management practices. Its historical significance and vital role in safeguarding the surrounding communities make it a noteworthy infrastructure project worth studying and appreciating for its contributions to sustainable water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

1843

Dam Height

168

River Or Stream

BRONX RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2218

Drainage Area

12.8

Nid Storage

116560

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

168
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.