Old Forge Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thendara Dam Second Bisby Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Old Forge Reservoir Dam, located in Old Forge, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1905 to primarily reduce flood risks in the area.
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Summary
Managed by the state agency NYS DEC, this dam spans 129 feet in length and stands at a height of 18 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 22,610 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 9,002 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 736 acres, serving as a crucial asset for flood control and recreation purposes.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 36 feet, is controlled to manage maximum discharge of up to 980 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of downstream areas. However, with a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment in 2017, the dam's risk level is categorized as "Very High (1)", necessitating regular inspections and maintenance. Although the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are unclear, its strategic location on the Middle Branch Moose River underscores its importance in safeguarding the surrounding Herkimer County and New York communities from potential flooding events.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and functional aspects of Old Forge Reservoir Dam, recognizing its vital role in flood risk reduction and recreational activities. As one of the key infrastructure elements in the region, this concrete dam continues to be monitored and inspected regularly to ensure public safety and environmental resilience against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
129 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE BRANCH MOOSE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
736 |
Drainage Area |
55.1 |
Nid Storage |
22610 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buck Creek Near Inlet Ny
|
0cfs |
Buck Creek
|
1cfs |
Independence River At Donnattsburg Ny
|
214cfs |
Black River Near Boonville Ny
|
322cfs |
West Canada Creek Near Wilmurt Ny
|
257cfs |
Beaver River At Croghan Ny
|
723cfs |
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.
Old Forge Reservoir Dam
First Lake At Old Forge Ny