White Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Pond Dam, located in Farmers Mills, Putnam County, New York, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1899 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 12 feet and stretching 400 feet in length, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 1046 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 140 acres. It is situated on the TR-BOYD CORNERS RESERVOIR and is under the jurisdiction of the NYS DEC.

Despite being labeled as having a "Significant" hazard potential and a "Very High (1)" risk assessment, the dam's condition has not been rated as of the last inspection in November 2020. With regular inspections every 4 years and an emergency action plan last revised in January 2020, the dam is equipped with a controlled spillway measuring 4 feet in width. While the dam does not have associated locks, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor closely due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding area in the event of a breach.

White Pond Dam serves as both a recreational spot and a critical infrastructure, highlighting the delicate balance between human activities and environmental safety. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's integrity and safety, it remains an important focal point for ongoing discussions and actions related to water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-BOYD CORNERS RESERVOIR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

140

Drainage Area

0.74

Nid Storage

1046

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.