Bear Swamp Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bear Swamp Pond Dam, located in Calcutta, New York, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at 12 feet tall and spans 400 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 204 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-OAK CREEK and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, Bear Swamp Pond Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet and has not been inspected since April 1998. While the condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," the dam is in compliance with state regulations and permits, including those for inspection and enforcement. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, Bear Swamp Pond Dam serves as both a functional water resource structure and a scenic destination in Otsego County.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Bear Swamp Pond Dam an intriguing site to explore, with its historical significance dating back a century. While the dam's risk level is moderate, its low hazard potential and compliance with state regulations provide assurance of its safety and stability. As a privately owned structure dedicated to recreation, Bear Swamp Pond Dam offers a unique blend of utility and leisure in the beautiful surroundings of upstate New York.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OAK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
51 |
Nid Storage |
204 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Bear Swamp Pond Dam