Adams Pond Dam (163-0204) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Adams Pond Dam (163-0204) is a masonry dam located in Bowers, Sullivan County, New York, with a primary purpose of recreation and water supply.


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Summary

Completed in 1923, this historic structure stands at 18 feet high and spans a length of 610 feet, with a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the picturesque TR-Bowers Pond Brook, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Managed by a private owner, Adams Pond Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk (1) due to its age and condition assessment of "Not Rated." While emergency action plans and risk management measures are not specified, the dam's controlled spillway and low-risk assessment suggest that any potential risks are actively managed.

With its historical significance and scenic surroundings, Adams Pond Dam serves as both a recreational destination and a vital water supply source for the local community. As efforts continue to preserve and maintain this important structure, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the unique blend of history, nature, and utility that Adams Pond Dam embodies in Sullivan County, New York.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

610

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-BOWERS POND BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

95

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.