Asher Dam

LANDSMAN KILL· Dutchess, New York· Built 1890· Masonry· 12 ft tall

Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Asher Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height	12 ft (taller than 23.2% in NY)
Dam Length	90 ft
Dam Type	Masonry
Max Storage	35 acre-ft
Normal Storage	28 acre-ft

Surface Area	7 acres
Drainage Area	11 sq mi
Max Discharge	150 cfs
Year Completed	1890 (136 years old)
NID ID	NY13437

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: May 16, 2017

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

VILLAGE OF RHINEBECK

Local Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Asher Dam?

Asher Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Asher Dam?

Asher Dam is owned by VILLAGE OF RHINEBECK (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Asher Dam built?

Asher Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Asher Dam?

Asher Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Asher Dam?

Asher Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Asher Dam last inspected?

Asher Dam was last inspected on May 16, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.