Normanskill Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Normanskill, also known as the Watervliet Reservoir Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Guilderland, Albany County, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1916, this impressive buttress dam stands at a height of 39 feet and spans 380 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 5,000 acre-feet. With a surface area of 430 acres and a drainage area of 113 square miles, Normanskill plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Normanskill serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock ponds, fish and wildlife habitats, recreation, and water supply. Its high hazard potential calls for regular inspections and a detailed Emergency Action Plan to ensure public safety. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, the dam's condition is currently not available, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

Normanskill's historical significance, combined with its role in generating hydroelectric power and supporting various water-related activities, makes it a key feature in the water resource and climate enthusiast community. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's structural integrity and operational efficiency, Normanskill remains a symbol of sustainable water management practices in the beautiful state of New York.

Year Completed

1916

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Normans Kill

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

430

Drainage Area

113

Nid Storage

5000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

39
       
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.