Newton Falls Stabilization Pond #4 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Newton Falls Stabilization Pond #4 Dam, located in Fine, New York, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NYS DEC.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high and spans 535 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 413 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is designed to control the flow of Barrel Creek, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite being last inspected in 1996 and currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam has a spillway width of 110 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2730 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 21 acres and a drainage area of 1.1 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in St. Lawrence County. The risk management measures and emergency preparedness of the dam, however, remain unspecified.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Newton Falls Stabilization Pond #4 Dam presents an intriguing case study of an older earth dam in upstate New York. With its unique design features and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure for the long-term sustainability of our ecosystems and communities. Further research and assessment may be needed to ensure the continued safety and efficacy of this vital water management structure.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BARREL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

413

Hazard Potential

Low

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.