Salisbury Mills Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Salisbury Mills Dam, also known as Frost White Mill Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Salisbury Mills, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1922, this concrete dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes on the Moodna Creek. With a height of 29 feet and a length of 132 feet, it has a storage capacity of 1470 acre-feet and a drainage area of 129 square miles. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 132 feet, ensuring efficient water management and flood control in the region.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Salisbury Mills Dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as "Very High (1)" in terms of risk assessment. Despite not being structurally rated, the dam has undergone state inspections, maintenance, and enforcement to ensure public safety and environmental protection. It stands as a vital infrastructure for renewable energy generation and water resource management in Orange County, New York. With its historical significance and functional design, Salisbury Mills Dam remains a key component in the region's water infrastructure network.

As a key player in the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Salisbury Mills Dam contributes to the sustainable development of the region by providing clean energy and regulating water flow in the Moodna Creek. It is a testament to the ingenuity and engineering skills of its designers and builders, showcasing the importance of infrastructure in adapting to changing climate conditions. With its strategic location and efficient operation, Salisbury Mills Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation in water resource management for the benefit of the local community and environment.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

132

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

MOODNA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

129

Nid Storage

1470

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.