Minkel Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Minkel Dam, located in Ossining, New York, was completed in 1929 and stands at a height of 18 feet, with a length of 325 feet, primarily serving the purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam is made of concrete and masonry and has a maximum storage capacity of 18 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 15 acre-feet. It is situated on the SING-SING BROOK and is regulated by the NYS DEC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite its recreational appeal, Minkel Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition, with a very high risk level. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in January 2020, and it is important for stakeholders and authorities to ensure that proper risk management measures are in place. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 110 cubic feet per second, the dam's risk assessment highlights the need for proactive maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Minkel Dam serves as an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and risk management. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, the dam's condition assessment and hazard potential underline the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the sustainability of the water resource. As discussions around climate change and extreme weather events continue to evolve, the management of dams like Minkel Dam becomes increasingly crucial in safeguarding both recreational opportunities and public safety in the face of potential risks.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SING-SING BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
3 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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