John Patrick Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

John Patrick Pond Dam, located in Suffern, New York, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-MAHWAH RIVER, the dam's reservoir covers a surface area of 7 acres and has a drainage area of 0.51 square miles.

Despite its recreational value, John Patrick Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, has a width of 24 feet, and the maximum discharge rate is recorded at 234 cubic feet per second. The last inspection conducted in November 2018 revealed the dam's poor condition, prompting the need for frequent assessments to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.

In light of its moderate risk rating, John Patrick Pond Dam requires ongoing risk management measures to address its structural deficiencies. With the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation overseeing regulation, inspection, and enforcement, the dam's maintenance and emergency preparedness are crucial to safeguarding the surrounding community and the environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, ongoing monitoring and proactive measures are essential for the longevity and safety of this recreational water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-MAHWAH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

0.51

Nid Storage

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.