Columbia Corporation Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

The Columbia Corporation Dam, located in East Chatham, New York, serves as a vital water supply resource for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this concrete structure stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 58 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 35 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Owned privately and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment level. Despite not being rated for its condition, the Columbia Corporation Dam continues to operate efficiently for water supply purposes. The spillway, with a width of 50 feet, provides an uncontrolled release of excess water, ensuring the safety and stability of the dam during periods of high flow.

With its location on the Stony Kill river, the Columbia Corporation Dam remains a key infrastructure asset in Columbia County, New York. As a climate and water resource enthusiast, the technical details and regulatory oversight of this dam showcase the importance of sustainable water management practices in maintaining a reliable water supply for the community.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

58

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

STONY KILL

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.