Blanchard Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Blanchard Pond Dam, located in Natural Bridge, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1931 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 80 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. Blanchard Pond Dam is situated on Blanchard Creek, with a drainage area of 10 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and is inspected regularly to ensure public safety.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, Blanchard Pond Dam poses a moderate risk level (3) according to the available data. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 34 feet, and its surface area covers 7 acres. The dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, and its operations and maintenance fall under private ownership. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Blanchard Pond Dam serves as an important resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates in Lewis County, New York.

As a vital part of the local ecosystem and recreational landscape, Blanchard Pond Dam plays a key role in managing water resources and providing outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike. The dam's regulated status, regular inspections, and adherence to state permitting and enforcement guidelines ensure that it continues to serve its purpose while prioritizing public safety and environmental conservation. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blanchard Pond Dam represents a unique intersection of human engineering and natural beauty, showcasing the importance of responsible dam management in preserving our waterways for future generations.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

BLANCHARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

64

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.