Cork Center Storage Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cold Brook Reservoir Dam Larrabee Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Located in Johnstown, New York, the Cork Center Storage Reservoir Dam, also known as High Daddy Dam, serves as a crucial water supply structure in Fulton County.
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Summary
Built in 1919, this earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet and stretches 435 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 601 acre-feet and a normal storage of 404 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 41 acres and drains an area of 2.6 square miles, with a maximum discharge rate of 1650 cubic feet per second.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of March 2017. Despite its age, the structure continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing water supply to the region, with inspections conducted every two years to ensure its safety and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 165 feet, is uncontrolled in nature, showcasing the dam's reliance on natural flow regulation mechanisms.
In the face of moderate risk, the Cork Center Storage Reservoir Dam remains a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, supported by state-permitted operations and regular inspections to uphold its integrity. As an essential asset for water supply in the area, this historic dam exemplifies the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship, safeguarding the community against water scarcity while maintaining a delicate balance with the surrounding ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
CORK CENTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
41 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
601 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
49 |
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.
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