Basic Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Basic Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 21 ft (taller than 61.3% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 865 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 246 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,967 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00084 |
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
ALBANY WATER BOARD;ALBANY WATER BOARD;ALBANY WATER BOARD
Local Government
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High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Basic Creek Dam?
Basic Creek 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 Basic Creek Dam?
Basic Creek Dam is owned by ALBANY WATER BOARD;ALBANY WATER BOARD;ALBANY WATER BOARD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Basic Creek Dam built?
Basic Creek Dam was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Basic Creek Dam?
Basic Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Basic Creek Dam?
Basic Creek Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Basic Creek Dam last inspected?
Basic Creek Dam was last inspected on August 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.