Dickinson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: St. Regis Falls Eli Sochia Dam
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Located in Franklin, New York, Dickinson Dam is a private-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Situated on the Dear River, this dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 200 feet. With a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 17 acres and drains an area of 5.6 square miles. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential.
Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, Dickinson Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. While the dam is state-regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, it has not undergone recent inspections or been assigned an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status. However, it is reassuring that the structure poses a low hazard potential and has a moderate risk management measure in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dickinson Dam offers an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its recreational focus and unique design features, this dam presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of human activity with environmental stewardship. As stakeholders continue to monitor and maintain this structure, it serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Dear River |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
5.6 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Dickinson Dam