Alder Pond
Key Takeaway
Alder Pond is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 37.1% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 61 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| NID ID | NY01489 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
New York State Canal Corporation
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Alder Pond?
Alder Pond is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Alder Pond?
Alder Pond is owned by New York State Canal Corporation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Alder Pond built?
Alder Pond was completed in 1850, making it 176 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Alder Pond?
Alder Pond serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Alder Pond?
Alder Pond has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Alder Pond last inspected?
Alder Pond was last inspected on March 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.