Rotterdam Square Impoundment Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 9, 2026
Rotterdam Square Impoundment Dam, located in Schenectady, New York, was completed in 1987 and serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Poentic Kill river.
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Summary
This private-owned dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans an impressive length of 3300 feet, with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk rating, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 1030 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 2740 cubic feet per second, showcasing its robust engineering to manage heavy water flow during times of increased precipitation. With a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres, Rotterdam Square Impoundment Dam plays a vital role in managing water levels and reducing flood risks for the community of Schenectady. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring that it meets state standards for inspection, permitting, and enforcement.
Overall, Rotterdam Square Impoundment Dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in New York, demonstrating the importance of proactive management and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards. With its strategic location and functional design, this dam serves as a critical buffer against flooding events along the Poentic Kill river, providing a valuable resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and natural disaster mitigation.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
3300 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
POENTIC KILL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Drainage Area |
7.08 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Schoharie Creek At Burtonsville Ny
|
733cfs |
Mohawk River At Cohoes Ny
|
9190cfs |
Normans Kill At Albany Ny
|
338cfs |
Glowegee Creek At West Milton Ny
|
37cfs |
Hudson River At Green Island Ny
|
13100cfs |
Hudson R Above Lock 1 Nr Waterford Ny
|
7140cfs |
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.
Rotterdam Square Impoundment Dam
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