Red Mills Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Red Mills Dam, also known as Claverack Creek Dam, is a concrete structure located in Claverack, New York, along Claverack Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this dam serves primarily for recreation purposes and stands at a height of 19 feet with a length of 245 feet. It has a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 14 acres.

Despite its age, the dam is still in use and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. However, its condition assessment is marked as poor, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in June 2018 revealed the need for improvements, and the risk assessment categorizes the dam's risk level as moderate. With a spillway width of 164 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 7,862 cubic feet per second, the dam poses a crucial component in managing water resources in the region.

In light of its historical significance and the potential risks associated with its condition, the Red Mills Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's presence along Claverack Creek not only offers recreational opportunities but also underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

245

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

CLAVERACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

57.6

Nid Storage

166

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
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.