M S Abbey & Paul Emerson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Potter, New York, the M S Abbey & Paul Emerson Dam stands as a testament to both engineering ingenuity and the beauty of the surrounding environment.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. The dam boasts a height of 30 feet and a length of 470 feet, with a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres, making it a significant feature within the TR-Flint Creek watershed.

Operated by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, prompting ongoing risk management measures to safeguard against potential hazards. With its uncontrolled spillway and picturesque surroundings, the M S Abbey & Paul Emerson Dam offers a captivating blend of recreational opportunities and environmental stewardship, making it a must-visit destination for water resource enthusiasts in Yates County, New York.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-FLINT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

0.69

Nid Storage

67

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.