Beaver Brook Site #1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Beaver Brook Site #1 Dam, located in Dolgeville, New York, is a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the Beaver Brook river.


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Summary

Built in 2002 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 1067 feet, providing a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the NYS DEC and undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood hazards.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway and high hazard potential highlight the importance of its maintenance and monitoring. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is designed to withstand the maximum discharge of 2557 cubic feet per second, protecting the surrounding Herkimer County community from potential flooding events. Its primary purpose of flood risk reduction is a testament to the critical role it plays in safeguarding the local area from water-related disasters.

As an essential component of flood risk management, Beaver Brook Site #1 Dam serves as a key example of effective water resource infrastructure in New York. Its strategic location, design, and regulatory oversight contribute to the overall resilience of the region in the face of climate-related challenges. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will appreciate the intricate details and significance of this dam in protecting the local community and environment from the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

1067

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

BEAVER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

2.03

Nid Storage

225

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.