Stuart Mitchell Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Stuart Mitchell Pond Dam, located in Middlesex, New York, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-West River, within the jurisdiction of the NYS DEC and is regulated by the state, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures in place.

The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type, has a width of 36 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 85 cubic feet per second. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the condition of the dam is currently listed as "Not Rated." While the last inspection took place in 2008, the dam has not been assessed for its emergency action plan readiness or compliance with guidelines, highlighting potential areas for improvement in risk management and emergency preparedness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Stuart Mitchell Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and recreational land use. As a structure vital for water storage and flood control in the area, the dam's maintenance and regulatory oversight play crucial roles in preserving its functionality and ensuring the safety of downstream communities. With its rich history and unique design features, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and natural resources in our changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-WEST RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

22

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.