Bradford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Bradford Dam, also known as Mill Pond, is a hydroelectric dam located in Bradford, New York.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and was completed in 1950. With a storage capacity of 74,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 60,000 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the power of Mud Creek for hydroelectric purposes.

Covering an area of 2200 acres and with a drainage area of 44.8 square miles, Bradford Dam serves as a vital water resource in Steuben County, New York. The dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. While the last inspection was conducted in 1997, the dam meets state regulations and is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Bradford Dam continues to provide sustainable energy through its hydroelectric capabilities. With a spillway width of 29 feet and a maximum discharge of 1116 cubic feet per second, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate-conscious energy production in the region.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

183

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

MUD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2200

Drainage Area

44.8

Nid Storage

74000

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.