Wurtsboro Hills Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Wurtsboro Hills Dam, located in Wurtsboro Hills, New York, was completed in 1948 and is primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 480 feet, impounding the waters of the WILLSEY BROOK to create a storage capacity of 7 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 750 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by a private entity, Wurtsboro Hills Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 35 feet, and its hazard potential is considered significant. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Wurtsboro Hills Dam remains a key feature in the area for recreation and water resource management. Its importance lies in providing water storage and flood control benefits, as well as serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities. With proper maintenance and oversight, the dam continues to play a crucial role in the local community and the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

WILLSEY BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

7

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.