Rushmore Estates Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rushmore Estates Dam, located in New Paltz, New York, is a privately owned structure designed for flood risk reduction along the TRIB-WOODBURY CREEK.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 62.3 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 17.1 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the NYS DEC and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

This earth dam, completed in an unspecified year, plays a crucial role in managing flood risk in the area by storing excess water and reducing the potential for downstream flooding. With a drainage area of 530 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 911 cubic feet per second, Rushmore Estates Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for protecting the surrounding community from the impacts of extreme weather events. The dam's risk assessment is rated as high (2), emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness.

Although the condition assessment of Rushmore Estates Dam is currently listed as "Not Rated," it is imperative that the dam's owners and regulators prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity and ensure its continued functionality. As climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the role of dams like Rushmore Estates becomes increasingly critical in safeguarding communities and infrastructure from the impacts of flooding. It is essential that all stakeholders remain vigilant in their stewardship of this important flood risk reduction asset to protect the community and the environment for generations to come.

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TRIB-WOODBURY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.1

Drainage Area

530

Nid Storage

62.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.