Gordon Dam

HICKOK BROOK· Sullivan, New York· Built 1938· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Gordon Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 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 Length220 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage33 acre-ft
Normal Storage31 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge29 cfs
Year Completed1938 (88 years old)
NID IDNY00505

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: No
Last Inspection: November 29, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

NYS DEC DIVISION OF LANDS & FORESTS

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Gordon Dam?

Gordon 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 Gordon Dam?

Gordon 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 Gordon Dam built?

Gordon Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Gordon Dam?

Gordon 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 Gordon Dam?

Gordon 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 Gordon Dam last inspected?

Gordon Dam was last inspected on November 29, 2018. 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.