Bradley Brook Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bradley Brook Reservoir Dam, located in Madison County, New York, is a state-owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water storage.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1878, stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 1060 feet, with a storage capacity of 2800 acre-feet. The reservoir created by the dam covers a surface area of 141 acres and drains a small area of 2.6 square miles, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 15 feet.

Despite being deemed to have a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as fair as of 2017. It undergoes inspections every four years, with the last inspection conducted in March 2019. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with no specific risk management measures listed in the data.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area may find Bradley Brook Reservoir Dam to be a fascinating structure, given its long history and importance for water storage and recreational activities. The dam's significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation and the protection of downstream communities and ecosystems. The dam's location in a picturesque natural setting along Bradley Brook adds to its appeal for those interested in the intersection of water management and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

1060

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BRADLEY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

141

Drainage Area

2.6

Nid Storage

2800

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.