Gordon White Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Gordon White Pond Dam, located in Barryville, New York, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Owned privately, but regulated by the NYS DEC, this earthen dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene oasis for visitors to enjoy. With a height of 11 feet and a length of 210 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Gordon White Pond Dam has not been rated for its condition. The uncontrolled spillway with a width of 22 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 45 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper water flow management during heavy rainfall events. While the last inspection date is listed as December 31, 1901, ongoing regulatory oversight and enforcement by the NYS DEC help to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both the environment and local community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for sustainable practices, Gordon White Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management. With its picturesque setting along TR-Halway Brook and its vital role in providing recreational opportunities, this dam stands as a symbol of the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-HALWAY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

0.19

Nid Storage

92

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.