New Central Park Receiving Res Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Manhattan, New York, the New Central Park Receiving Reservoir Dam is a critical water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1862, this earth dam stands at 38 feet high and spans a length of 8448 feet, with a storage capacity of 4013 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, ensuring a sustainable source of water for the residents of the city.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses moderate risk and is subject to regular inspections. In case of emergencies, the dam's emergency action plan is prepared and regularly updated to meet guidelines and ensure the safety of the surrounding area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the New Central Park Receiving Reservoir Dam a fascinating piece of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in providing water supply to the bustling city of Manhattan. With its historical significance, impressive dimensions, and critical function, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management in urban environments.

Year Completed

1862

Dam Length

8448

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

96

Drainage Area

0.17

Nid Storage

4013

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.