Earle Peterson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Earle Peterson Dam, located in Mt Vision, New York, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this Earth-type dam stands at 15 feet tall and stretches 450 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. Situated on the WEST BRANCH OTEGO CREEK, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a relatively safe and stable feature in the area.

Managed by the NYS DEC and regulated by the state of New York, Earle Peterson Dam has not been inspected since 1998, with its condition currently marked as "Not Rated." Despite this, the dam remains operational, with a spillway width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 167 cubic feet per second. With a surface area of 8 acres and a drainage area of 0.13 square miles, this dam continues to provide a recreational haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Otsego County.

While Earle Peterson Dam may not have undergone recent assessments, its significance as a recreational structure in the region cannot be overlooked. With its serene location and modest risk factors, this dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence between human development and environmental conservation in New York State. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to explore and appreciate this area, the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance remains crucial for the safety and enjoyment of all.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH OTEGO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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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.