Cold Spring Dam (Upper) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Putnam County, New York, Cold Spring Dam (Upper) is a stone dam completed in 1934 with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

This dam, situated on Foundry Brook in North Highland, has a height of 23 feet and a length of 270 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Despite its crucial role in water resource management, the dam is currently assessed as having poor condition and high hazard potential.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 177 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 600 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 0.73 square miles, Cold Spring Dam (Upper) serves as a vital structure for regulating the flow of water and ensuring sufficient water supply for the surrounding area. However, the dam's condition assessment and hazard potential highlight the need for regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure continued functionality.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Cold Spring Dam (Upper) plays a crucial role in supporting the water needs of the region. With a moderate risk rating and a history dating back to the early 20th century, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the reliability of the water supply system.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

FOUNDRY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.73

Nid Storage

88

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.