Cold Brook Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Cold Brook Reservoir Dam, also known as Christman Reservoir, is a vital water supply structure located in Johnstown, New York.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and was completed in 1878 to provide a maximum storage capacity of 6 million gallons of water. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 5 million gallons and a surface area of 1 acre.

Regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Cold Brook Reservoir Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk assessment rating. Inspected every four years, the last assessment in January 2019 deemed the structure to be in good condition. With its historical significance and essential role in providing water to the region, Cold Brook Reservoir Dam is a key component of the local water resource infrastructure.

Overall, Cold Brook Reservoir Dam is a crucial water supply asset in Fulton County, New York, ensuring a reliable source of water for the community. With its long history dating back to the late 19th century, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management practices. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Cold Brook Reservoir Dam are essential to ensuring the safety and security of the local population in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

135

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

COLD BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Nid Storage

6

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.