High Falls Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

High Falls is a gravity dam located in High Falls, New York, along the Rondout Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1935 for hydroelectric purposes, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 470 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 32,600 cubic feet per second, High Falls plays a crucial role in water resource management in Ulster County.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, High Falls has a low hazard potential and is rated as having a moderate risk level. Despite its age, the dam remains in satisfactory condition and is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 430 feet, helps regulate water levels during periods of high flow, contributing to flood control efforts in the region.

High Falls serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and renewable energy generation. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, this gravity dam continues to play a vital role in balancing the needs of water users, climate resilience, and clean energy production in the area.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Rondout Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

246

Nid Storage

115

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.