Rossman Fly Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Rossman Fly Dam, located in West Fulton, New York, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation along Panther Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a length of 80 feet, providing a surface area of 32 acres and a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet. Despite its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines.

Although the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level 3 rating for potential hazards. The dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan and inundation maps, suggesting a need for further risk management measures to be implemented. The area is represented by Congressman Antonio Delgado and falls under the jurisdiction of the New York District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, although federal agency ownership, funding, and involvement in the dam's construction or operations are not listed in the available data.

Overall, Rossman Fly Dam serves as a recreational resource in Schoharie County, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities along Panther Creek. Its historical significance as a structure dating back to the early 20th century adds to the charm of the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes. With ongoing regulatory oversight and potential for further risk mitigation efforts, Rossman Fly Dam remains an intriguing site for those passionate about water management and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

PANTHER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Nid Storage

86

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.