Alder Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Forestport Kayuta
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Alder Pond is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Forestport, New York, along the Black River.
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Summary
Built in 1850, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a length of 550 feet, providing a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 15 acres. Despite its age, Alder Pond continues to operate efficiently, generating hydroelectric power and supporting navigation in the area.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Alder Pond poses a high hazard potential due to its age and limited condition assessment availability. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure public safety. With one flap gate for outlet control and no spillway, the dam relies on careful monitoring to prevent potential hazards and ensure proper functioning during emergencies.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Alder Pond an intriguing example of historic hydroelectric infrastructure in New York. Its location in the Oneida County offers a glimpse into the region's water management practices and the importance of sustainable energy generation. As efforts to address climate change continue, Alder Pond serves as a reminder of the critical role dams play in water resource management and renewable energy production.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Drainage Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Outlet Gates |
Flap - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Alder Pond