Stuyvesant Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Stuyvesant Falls, located in Columbia, New York, is a captivating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This hydroelectric dam, completed in 1900, stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 240 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 11,500 cubic feet per second, this dam on Kinderhook Creek plays a crucial role in harnessing renewable energy for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Stuyvesant Falls dam serves as a prime example of sustainable energy production through hydropower. With its masonry structure and uncontrolled spillway, the dam presents a significant hazard potential but is subject to regular inspections to ensure safety and compliance. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate efficiently, demonstrating the enduring legacy of early 20th-century engineering.

The surrounding area offers a picturesque setting for water enthusiasts, with a surface area of 46 acres and a drainage area of 325 square miles. The dam's location in the town of Stuyvesant Falls provides a unique opportunity to witness the intersection of human innovation and natural beauty. For those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate, and sustainable energy, Stuyvesant Falls dam is a must-visit destination that showcases the potential of hydroelectric power in a changing world.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Kinderhook Creek

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

46

Drainage Area

325

Nid Storage

220

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

13
       
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.