Balsam Swamp Dam
Key Takeaway
Balsam Swamp Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 | 19 ft (taller than 53.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 355 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 786 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 121 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 449 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | NY01006 |
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
NYS DEC DIVISION OF LANDS & FORESTS
State Government
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High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Balsam Swamp Dam?
Balsam Swamp Dam 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 Balsam Swamp Dam?
Balsam Swamp Dam is owned by NYS DEC DIVISION OF LANDS & FORESTS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Balsam Swamp Dam built?
Balsam Swamp Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Balsam Swamp Dam?
Balsam Swamp Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Balsam Swamp Dam?
Balsam Swamp Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Balsam Swamp Dam last inspected?
Balsam Swamp Dam was last inspected on July 15, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.