Heinz Beneke Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bear Swamp Pond Dam Hayes Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Heinz Beneke Dam, located in Decatur, New York, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond, with recreational activities also taking place in the area.
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Summary
Constructed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 990 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a crucial water resource for the surrounding community.
Managed by a private entity, Heinz Beneke Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), ensuring that it meets all state inspection and enforcement requirements. With a spillway width of 35 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 88 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle excess water flow in a controlled manner. Despite not having a current condition rating, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the Otsego County area.
As an essential infrastructure in the region, Heinz Beneke Dam provides both water storage and recreational opportunities while maintaining a low hazard potential. With its strategic location on TR-Parker Creek, this earth dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and serves as a valuable asset for the community.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
990 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PARKER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Heinz Beneke Dam