Mountain Brook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Mountain Brook Dam, located in Putnam, New York, stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1997 for irrigation purposes, this private Earth dam boasts a height of 58 feet and a storage capacity of 67.2 acre-feet, serving the vital function of regulating the Mountain Brook's flow. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Mountain Brook Dam is a critical piece of infrastructure in the region, holding back a surface area of 2.9 acres and serving a drainage area of 0.56 square miles. With a maximum discharge capacity of 3544 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area. Its presence underscores the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding both the environment and surrounding communities.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the resilience of structures like Mountain Brook Dam becomes increasingly vital. With its history of efficient operation and adherence to regulatory standards, this dam serves as a model for sustainable water management practices and underscores the importance of investing in infrastructure that can withstand the challenges of a changing climate. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mountain Brook Dam stands as a beacon of responsible stewardship and a reminder of the interconnectedness between water, climate, and community well-being.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Drainage Area

0.56

Nid Storage

67.2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

58
       
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.