West Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

West Brook Dam in Walton, New York, is a rockfill dam completed in 1888 with a height of 18 feet and a length of 95 feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It serves as a critical water resource for the area, with a storage capacity of 12 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres. The dam is located on Third Brook and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it to be in fair condition. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 35 feet, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. While it meets state permitting and inspection requirements, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about emergency preparedness in the event of a dam failure.

Overall, West Brook Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Delaware County, New York. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find interest in its historical significance, structural details, and ongoing maintenance efforts to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1888

Dam Length

95

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

THIRD BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.