Cobleskill Lower Res Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Cobleskill Lower Reservoir Dam, also known as Dow Reservoir, is a vital water supply structure located in Mineral Springs, New York.


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Summary

Constructed in 1886, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 290 feet, with a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Dow Brook and serves the primary purpose of providing water supply to the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government, the Cobleskill Lower Reservoir Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, with a width of 401 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 480 cubic feet per second. The dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with a high hazard potential due to its location and capacity.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will be intrigued by the historical significance and engineering aspects of the Cobleskill Lower Reservoir Dam. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management for the area, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. As efforts to mitigate risks and ensure the dam's resilience are ongoing, the Cobleskill Lower Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural resource management.

Year Completed

1886

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

DOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.