Highland Park Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Highland Park Reservoir Dam, located in Rochester, New York, was completed in 1875 and is primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 28 feet and a length of 1800 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet and serves the surrounding area with a normal storage level of 58 acre-feet. The dam is classified as an earth dam and has a spillway type of uncontrolled, with a hazard potential rated as high.

Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition according to a recent assessment in June 2019. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections every two years. In the event of an emergency, the dam has an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, although the last revision was in January 2021. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with measures in place to manage potential risks associated with the structure.

Highland Park Reservoir Dam is a crucial infrastructure for water supply in the region, serving its purpose effectively while being regulated and inspected by state authorities. With its historical significance dating back to the 19th century, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing water resources to the community. As climate change impacts water resources, the management of dams like Highland Park Reservoir Dam becomes increasingly important in ensuring water security and safety for surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1875

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

83

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.