Sturgeon Pool Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sturgeon Pool Dam, located in Rosendale, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1922 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 109 feet and spanning 670 feet in length, this dam boasts a storage capacity of 10,894 acre-feet and serves as a vital component in the Wallkill River watershed. With a maximum discharge capacity of 90,720 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.

Managed by a Public Utility owner type and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Sturgeon Pool Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, but its condition assessment as of 2013 was deemed satisfactory. Despite moderate risk levels, the dam has not been modified in recent years and continues to function effectively, contributing to the local water resource management efforts and providing a reliable source of renewable energy through hydroelectric power generation.

With its uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 490 feet, Sturgeon Pool Dam remains a key feature in the Ulster County landscape. The dam's proximity to the Wallkill River, combined with its significant storage capacity and hydraulic capabilities, underscores its importance in both water resource management and climate resilience initiatives. As climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable water infrastructure, Sturgeon Pool Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

109

River Or Stream

WALLKILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

212

Drainage Area

787

Nid Storage

10894

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

109
       
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.