New Hope Saw Mill Dam, located in Cayuga, New York, stands as a testament to early 19th-century engineering with a completion date of 1850.
Wind
Humidity
This concrete dam on Bear Swamp Creek boasts a height of 19 feet and a length of 190 feet, providing storage capacity for 500 acre-feet of water. However, despite its historical significance, the dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, New Hope Saw Mill Dam presents a unique challenge for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a drainage area of 7.6 square miles and a maximum discharge of 850 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the region. However, its poor condition and outdated design pose a potential risk to the surrounding community, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance in ensuring the safety and longevity of vital water infrastructure.
As advocates for sustainable water management and climate resilience, enthusiasts may find New Hope Saw Mill Dam to be a compelling case study in the intersection of historical preservation, infrastructure maintenance, and environmental protection. With its outdated spillway type and uncontrolled spillway width of 20 feet, the dam represents a delicate balance between the need for water storage and the potential risks associated with aging infrastructure. By staying informed and engaged in the maintenance and regulation of dams like New Hope Saw Mill, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of critical water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
190 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
BEAR SWAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
7.6 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
19 |