Honk Falls Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lyon Lodge Dam Cape Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Honk Falls Dam, located in Napanoch, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1898, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 42 feet and spanning 294 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 1504 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 251 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic Rondout Creek and offers a surface area of 41 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Honk Falls Dam has been flagged with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, with the last inspection in July 2019 revealing areas in need of improvement. The dam's spillway, though uncontrolled, is 213 feet wide and can handle a maximum discharge of 20,119 cubic feet per second. With its location in Ulster County, New York, the dam is under state jurisdiction, regulated by the NYS DEC, and subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
As stakeholders continue to monitor and manage the risk associated with Honk Falls Dam, its importance as a recreational asset and water resource in the region remains undeniable. With its rich history dating back over a century and its critical role in managing water flow along the Rondout Creek, efforts to address infrastructure improvements and enhance the dam's safety measures are essential for the continued enjoyment and preservation of this iconic structure.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
294 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
RONDOUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
41 |
Drainage Area |
101 |
Nid Storage |
1504 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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