Little Choconut Site 1a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Choconut Site 1a Dam, also known as Finch Hollow Site 1a Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Johnson City, New York.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-Susquehanna River. With a height of 35 feet and a length of 525 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 7730 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the NYS DEC, this dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Although its hazard potential is rated as high, the condition assessment is currently not rated. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in January 2020, indicating a commitment to preparedness and risk management. Overall, the Little Choconut Site 1a Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding events, with a moderate risk level assigned to its operation and maintenance.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the details of this dam's specifications and regulatory oversight fascinating. Its association with flood risk reduction and its location on the Susquehanna River make it a key infrastructure for water management in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures highlight a commitment to ensuring public safety and minimizing potential risks associated with its operation.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-SUSQUEHANNA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

1.21

Nid Storage

340

Hazard Potential

High

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.