Arling Saunders Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Amity Lake Dam State Dam At Belmont
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Arling Saunders Pond Dam, also known as Saunders Pond, is a private dam located in Allegany County, New York.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 266 feet. With a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet, the dam serves a variety of purposes including recreation and water resource management. Situated along the TR-N Branch Plumbottom Creek, this dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam's hazard potential is considered significant, with a high risk assessment rating due to its condition being labeled as "Not Rated." Despite this, the dam lacks a spillway, and its emergency action plan (EAP) is not currently prepared or up to date, posing potential risks in the event of a dam failure. The dam's location in Belmont, New York, and its proximity to the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight the importance of proper risk management and maintenance of this critical infrastructure to protect both the surrounding community and the water resources it serves.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Arling Saunders Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of balancing water storage, recreation, and safety considerations in a changing climate. As efforts continue to improve the dam's emergency preparedness and overall condition assessment, it underscores the importance of proactive measures to safeguard our water resources and infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
266 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-N BRANCH PLUMBOTTOM CRK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Arling Saunders Pond Dam