Brookside Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smeallie Dam Harrower Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Brookside Reservoir Dam, located in Amsterdam, New York, is a crucial structure owned and regulated by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1882, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 375 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Bunn Creek, serves as a vital resource for Montgomery County, with a normal storage level of 306 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres.
Despite its age, Brookside Reservoir Dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition during its latest assessment in March 2018. This high-hazard structure is subject to regular inspections by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to ensure its safety and functionality. With a spillway width of 78 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a moderate risk level (3) according to the risk assessment conducted. In case of emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is up to date, meeting regulatory guidelines for efficient response and management.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brookside Reservoir Dam stands as a historic yet vital infrastructure supporting the water supply needs of Montgomery County. Its presence on Bunn Creek contributes to the region's water management system, offering a significant storage capacity and serving as a critical asset for local communities. As efforts continue to maintain and enhance the dam's safety and resilience, it remains a key component in ensuring water security and sustainability in the area, under the careful oversight of regulatory authorities and emergency preparedness measures.
Year Completed |
1882 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
BUNN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Drainage Area |
4.8 |
Nid Storage |
375 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Schoharie Creek At Burtonsville Ny
|
1840cfs |
Glowegee Creek At West Milton Ny
|
67cfs |
Canajoharie Creek Nr Canajoharie Ny
|
40cfs |
Otsquago Creek At Fort Plain Ny
|
105cfs |
Mohawk River At Cohoes Ny
|
13600cfs |
Hudson R Above Lock 1 Nr Waterford Ny
|
9970cfs |
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.
Brookside Reservoir Dam