Boyds Corner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boyds Corner Dam, located in Putnam, New York, was completed in 1872 and serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

This masonry dam stands at a height of 78 feet and spans 670 feet across the WEST BRANCH CROTON RIVER, with a storage capacity of 12,010 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 205 feet, helps regulate the maximum discharge of 6,200 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and stability of the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Boyds Corner Dam remains a key component of water resource management in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 5,260 acre-feet and a surface area of 297 acres. The dam is regulated by the NYS DEC and undergoes regular inspections, with a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being "Not Rated." With a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)," the dam's emergency action plan is critical in mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like Boyds Corner Dam in maintaining a sustainable water supply is essential for the future of the region's ecosystem.

Year Completed

1872

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

78

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH CROTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

297

Drainage Area

23.5

Nid Storage

12010

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

78
       
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.