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West Branch Dam, also known as Carmel Dam, is a crucial water supply infrastructure located in Crafts, Putnam County, New York.
Completed in 1895, this earth-type dam stands at 85 feet high and spans 1,795 feet across the West Branch Croton River. With a storage capacity of 42,300 acre-feet and a drainage area of 42.87 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in supplying water to the surrounding region.
Maintained and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, West Branch Dam is considered to have a high hazard potential due to its location and size. Despite this, the dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of December 2016, with regular inspections and emergency action plans in place to ensure safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 36,000 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway width of 260 feet, the dam is well-equipped to manage water flow and mitigate potential risks.
As a key water supply infrastructure in the region, West Branch Dam serves as a critical resource for the community while also posing challenges in terms of risk management and maintenance. With a history dating back over a century, the dam continues to play a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area, underlining the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1895 |
Dam Length |
1795 |
Dam Height |
85 |
River Or Stream |
WEST BRANCH CROTON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1083 |
Drainage Area |
42.87 |
Nid Storage |
42300 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
85 |
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