John Orth Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

John Orth Pond in Madison, New York, is a picturesque water resource managed by the USDA NRCS for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam structure stands at 9 feet in height with a length of 647 feet, offering a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 60 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures.

Located in the Baltimore District, John Orth Pond features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 18 feet, ensuring the safety of the surrounding area in case of overflow. While the current condition assessment is not available, the structure undergoes regular inspections to maintain its integrity. With its serene surroundings and recreational opportunities, this dam serves as a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, showcasing the harmonious balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in water management practices.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, John Orth Pond stands as a testament to sustainable water infrastructure development. With its emphasis on recreation and safety, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive risk assessment and management in ensuring the resilience of water systems in the face of evolving climate challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, John Orth Pond serves as a model for responsible water resource management in the context of a changing climate landscape.

Dam Length

647

Dam Height

9

Nid Storage

86

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.