Edgar Ploetz Recreational Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Edgar Ploetz Recreational Pond Dam, located in Ashford, New York, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1969 for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 22 feet and spanning a length of 380 feet, this dam creates a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet to provide water for recreational activities. The dam is situated on Beaver Meadow Creek and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

With a spillway width of 17 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second, the Edgar Ploetz Recreational Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential in case of failure. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is essential that emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to ensure public safety and protect the surrounding environment from potential flooding events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and management of dams like Edgar Ploetz is crucial for sustainable water conservation and disaster preparedness.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BEAVER MEADOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

91

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.