Rihm & Kittel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Rihm & Kittel Dam, located in Dykemans, New York, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 300 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-East Branch Croton River, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 45 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.16 square miles.

Managed by the NYS DEC and regulated by the state of New York, the Rihm & Kittel Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not having a formal condition assessment, the dam's risk management measures are in place to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 28 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 182 cubic feet per second, further highlighting its importance in managing water flow and preventing flooding in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the essential role that the Rihm & Kittel Dam plays in providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding the local ecosystem from potential risks. Its strategic location in Putnam County, New York, coupled with its low hazard potential and controlled risk assessment, underscores the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water infrastructure. As a significant asset in the region's water management system, the dam's history and operational details offer valuable insights into the intersection of human-made structures and environmental conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-EAST BRANCH CROTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

1.16

Nid Storage

68

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.