Claytons Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Claytons Dam, also known as Alder Brook Pond, is a private recreational dam located in Pierceville, New York.


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Summary

Constructed in 1917, this earth dam stands at 21 feet high and spans 315 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 179 acre-feet. Situated on Eaton Brook, it serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking, offering a surface area of 6.5 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Claytons Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses minimal threat but is still subject to regular monitoring and maintenance. The spillway, with a width of 60 feet, is designed as uncontrolled to manage overflow and maintain the dam's integrity during periods of heavy rainfall.

Although not rated for its current condition, Claytons Dam continues to provide a recreational oasis for locals and tourists alike. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the area, they appreciate the serene beauty of the reservoir and the essential role the dam plays in supporting outdoor recreation and preserving the natural environment in Madison County, New York.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

EATON BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Drainage Area

11.5

Nid Storage

179

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.