Pickwacket Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fishing Brook Dam Arbutus Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Pickwacket Pond Dam, located in Newcomb, Hamilton County, New York, is a privately-owned earth dam completed in 1955 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 7 feet and with a length of 118 feet, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 268 acre-feet and a surface area of 154 acres. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure safety and compliance.
The dam, situated on Fishing Brook, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet and has been assessed with a low hazard potential. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level. Although the last inspection took place in 1980, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are not specified in the available data. With its picturesque setting and recreational value, Pickwacket Pond Dam stands as a notable structure in the region for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
Overall, Pickwacket Pond Dam serves as a vital element in the local water infrastructure, providing both recreational opportunities and potential risks that require ongoing management and oversight. As a privately-owned facility with state regulation and oversight, the dam's role in water resource management highlights the importance of balancing human activities with environmental considerations in maintaining sustainable water systems. For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, Pickwacket Pond Dam offers a fascinating case study of a small-scale earth dam contributing to the local ecosystem and water management practices in New York's scenic Adirondack region.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
118 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
FISHING BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
154 |
Drainage Area |
2.23 |
Nid Storage |
268 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hudson River Near Newcomb Ny
|
124cfs |
Indian River Near Indian Lake Ny
|
309cfs |
Raquette River At Piercefield Ny
|
1060cfs |
Hudson River At North Creek Ny
|
545cfs |
Buck Creek
|
1cfs |
Buck Creek Near Inlet Ny
|
0cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cold River Campsite
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Salmon River campsite (unofficial)
|
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Lake Eaton - DEC
|
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Tirrell Pond tent site
|
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Lake Harris - DEC
|
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Deerland Tent Site 1
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Pickwacket Pond Dam