Rock City Saw Mill Dam, located in Rock City, New York, was completed in 1900 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This masonry dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 86 feet, with a storage capacity of 11 acre-feet and a drainage area of 6.14 square miles. The dam, situated on the TR-LAKES KILL stream, is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its historical significance, Rock City Saw Mill Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of 2008. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 45 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 135 cubic feet per second. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently unknown, highlighting potential gaps in emergency preparedness and risk mitigation strategies. With a recent inspection in June 2020 and a moderate risk rating, stakeholders may need to address the dam's condition and safety measures to ensure the protection of downstream communities and the environment.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts in the Dutchess County area may find Rock City Saw Mill Dam an intriguing structure given its historical significance, recreational value, and regulatory oversight by the NYS DEC. The dam's location on the TR-LAKES KILL stream, along with its structural features and hazard potential, present a complex interplay of factors that warrant ongoing monitoring and potential risk management actions. As discussions around dam safety and climate resilience continue, the case of Rock City Saw Mill Dam provides a compelling example of the intersection between historical infrastructure, environmental protection, and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
86 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LAKES KILL |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
1.2 |
Drainage Area |
6.14 |
Nid Storage |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
12 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wilcox Memorial Park
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Lake Taghkanic State Park
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Margaret Norrie State Park
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