Cranberry Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dyken Pond Dam Lake Elizabeth Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Cranberry Pond Dam, located in Rensselaer, New York, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1800 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 7 feet and a length of 135 feet, this dam holds a storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 55 acres. Situated along the QUACKENKILL river, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
Despite its historical significance, Cranberry Pond Dam has not been inspected since November 1990, raising concerns about its risk assessment and management measures. While the dam is under state regulation and jurisdiction by the NYS DEC, the lack of recent inspections and assessments poses a potential threat to the surrounding area in the event of a structural failure. With no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated, the community may face challenges in responding to any emergencies related to the dam.
In light of its high risk assessment and outdated inspection records, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and maintenance of Cranberry Pond Dam. With its location in a densely populated area, a proactive approach to risk management and emergency preparedness is essential to ensure the protection of both the environment and the local community. Collaboration between the private owners, state regulatory agencies, and local authorities is crucial to address any potential hazards and safeguard the integrity of this historic dam.
Year Completed |
1800 |
Dam Length |
135 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
QUACKENKILL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
55 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
128 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
Cranberry Pond Dam