Anderson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Anderson Dam, located in Ellington, New York, is a private earth dam completed in 1954 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

It stands at a height of 16 feet with a length of 300 feet, offering a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. The dam, situated on Indian Brook, has a significant hazard potential and is regulated and inspected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 26 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 270 cubic feet per second. Despite being rated as not assessed for its condition, Anderson Dam poses a moderate risk level according to the data available. With a history of regular inspections every four years, the dam plays a crucial role in local water resource management and serves as a recreational spot for the community in Chautauqua County.

With its strategic location and vital functions, Anderson Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. As the dam remains under state jurisdiction and enforcement, efforts are in place to ensure its safety and integrity for the surrounding area. The dam's presence on Indian Brook adds to the ecological diversity and water management efforts in the region, making it a significant feature for those interested in sustainable water resource practices.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

INDIAN BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

42

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.