Arbutus Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Arbutus Pond Dam, located in Newcomb, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1940 with a primary purpose of "Other".


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 65 feet, offering a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. It is regulated and inspected by the NYS DEC, with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating.

Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its current condition, with the last inspection taking place in 1972. The controlled spillway, with a width of 50 feet, can discharge up to 1450 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 15 acres and a drainage area of 2.5 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly along the TR-RICH LAKE.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Arbutus Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a historic structure that continues to fulfill its purpose of water management. Its location in the scenic Essex County adds to its significance, while the lack of recent condition assessments raises questions about its long-term sustainability. As efforts to address climate change intensify, understanding the role and resilience of dams like Arbutus Pond becomes increasingly important in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

65

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-RICH LAKE

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.