Round Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Round Pond Dam, located in Millbrook, New York, is a private earth dam completed in 1930 for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

With a height of 10 feet and a length of 50 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam is deemed to have a high risk level (2) due to unspecified factors.

The dam is state-regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement functions in place. The last inspection was conducted in August 2010, and the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." Although the dam does not have a spillway, it is designed to serve its primary purposes effectively while maintaining a low hazard potential. The risk assessment and management measures for Round Pond Dam indicate a need for continued monitoring and potential improvement to mitigate any identified risks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Round Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a smaller earth dam serving multiple purposes in a private ownership capacity. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam provides a glimpse into the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate. Further attention to risk assessment and management could ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital infrastructure in the face of potential challenges.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-E BRANCH WAPPINGER CRK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.