High Mountain Retention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

High Mountain Retention Basin Dam, located in Horseheads, New York, is a private dam designed for flood risk reduction along TR-NEWTOWN CREEK.


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Summary

Owned by a private entity, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 155.53 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 112.1 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.65 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the NYS DEC, High Mountain Retention Basin Dam is regulated and inspected by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment deems it as moderate. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 36 feet, and the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. Although the dam was last inspected in 2003, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic importance of High Mountain Retention Basin Dam in mitigating flood risks and managing water levels in the Chemung County area. With its significant storage capacity and state-regulated operations, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for maintaining water resources and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-NEWTOWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.65

Drainage Area

2.48

Nid Storage

155.53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.