Ridgewood Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

The Ridgewood Reservoir Dam, located in Highland Park, Queens, New York, was completed in 1891 and serves as a crucial water supply structure in the area.


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Summary

The dam is owned by the local government and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). With a height of 30 feet and a length of 8000 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 926 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 674 acre-feet.

The dam's primary purpose is water supply, and it is classified as an Earth dam with uncontrolled spillway type. The hazard potential of the dam is rated as low, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in October 2015, and it is currently in a condition that is not rated. The Emergency Action Plan for the dam was last revised in June 2016.

Despite its age, the Ridgewood Reservoir Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the area, providing essential water supply services. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1891

Dam Length

8000

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

926

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.