Bear Swamp Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bear Swamp Pond Dam Heinz Beneke Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bear Swamp Reservoir Dam, located in Furnaceville, Otsego County, New York, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1959 primarily for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 12 feet and a length of 275 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet and a surface area of 30 acres. The dam controls the flow of TR-Oak Creek and has a maximum discharge of 285 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Bear Swamp Reservoir Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 10 feet, and it has not been rated for condition assessment. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in April 1998, and it is currently not equipped with an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or inundation maps.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear Swamp Reservoir Dam presents an intriguing opportunity to explore the intersection of recreation and water supply management. Its historical significance, storage capacity, and unique design elements make it a noteworthy structure within the region. With its location in a picturesque setting and its role in controlling the flow of TR-Oak Creek, the dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and a fascinating case study for those interested in water infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OAK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Nid Storage |
210 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bear Swamp Reservoir Dam