Rush Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rush Reservoir Dam, located in the Town of Rush, New York, was completed in 1876 and serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the local community.


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Summary

Owned by the Local Government and regulated by the NYS DEC, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 288 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 193 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 13 acres and has a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 410 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, the Rush Reservoir Dam is in satisfactory condition and is inspected every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 9 feet and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While there have been no reported modifications or incidents, emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks or issues that may arise in the future. Overall, Rush Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region and is a key asset for climate resilience and adaptation efforts in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1876

Dam Length

3825

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

288

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.