Upper Greenwich Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Located in Greenwich, New York, Upper Greenwich (also known as Continental Dam) is a private concrete dam built in 1918 for hydroelectric purposes on the Battenkill River.


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Summary

This dam stands at 13.5 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a drainage area of 399 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is inspected regularly by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, ensuring its safety and structural integrity.

The dam's primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, making it an essential part of the region's renewable energy infrastructure. With a moderate risk assessment rating, efforts are in place to manage any potential risks associated with the dam. The surrounding area offers a picturesque view, with a surface area of 20 acres and a spillway width of 150 feet. While not regulated by the state, Upper Greenwich plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate initiatives in the area, showcasing the intersection of technology and nature for sustainable energy production.

As a historic structure that has stood the test of time, Upper Greenwich serves as a testament to the ingenuity of early engineering practices. Its location in Washington County, New York, underlines its significance in the local landscape. With a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, this dam continues to provide clean energy while preserving the natural beauty of the Battenkill River. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Greenwich represents a blend of history, technology, and sustainability in the heart of upstate New York.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

13.5

River Or Stream

Battenkill River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

399

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

14
       
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.