Quackenderry Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Quackenderry Creek Dam, located in Rensselaer, New York, was completed in 2002 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Quackenderry Creek.


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Summary

This local government-owned dam stands at 17 feet in height and stretches 235 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 61.5 acre-feet. Despite having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is deemed satisfactory as of the last assessment in February 2017.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Quackenderry Creek Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam does not have a spillway but is designed to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", the dam's emergency action plan is crucial for ensuring public safety in case of a catastrophic failure. Congressman Paul Tonko represents the district where the dam is located, highlighting the importance of federal and local cooperation in managing water resources and climate-related risks.

Quackenderry Creek Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region, showcasing the collaborative efforts between state and local authorities in safeguarding communities from natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the operational and risk management aspects of dams like Quackenderry Creek is essential for promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions. By staying informed and engaged with such critical infrastructure projects, we can contribute to the long-term protection and preservation of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

235

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

QUACKENDERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

6.8

Drainage Area

1.81

Nid Storage

61.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.