Sanford C Emerson Rec Pond Dams A & B Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sanford C Emerson Rec Pond Dams A & B, located in Potter, New York, are privately owned recreational dams on TR-FLINT CREEK.


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Summary

These earth dams, completed in 1967, have a height of 35 feet and a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet for recreational purposes. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, these dams have not been rated for their condition, but are inspected, permitted, and regulated by the NYS DEC.

Despite their low hazard potential, these dams play a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in Yates County, New York. The dams have a spillway width of 36 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 42 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and functionality of the structures. While they have not been evaluated for their emergency action plan or risk management measures, the dams are considered to meet guidelines and provide a moderate level of risk to surrounding areas.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sanford C Emerson Rec Pond Dams A & B offer a unique insight into the intersection of human-created infrastructure and natural water systems. Managed by private owners, these dams contribute to the local ecosystem while providing recreational benefits to the community. With their location on TR-FLINT CREEK and regulation by the NYS DEC, these dams serve as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-FLINT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.44

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.