Harold Toppel Dam

TR-ROELIFF JANSEN KILL· Columbia, New York· Built 1973· Earth· 17 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Harold Toppel Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 46.3% in NY)
Dam Length800 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage219 acre-ft
Normal Storage137 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge268 cfs
Year Completed1973 (53 years old)
NID IDNY01310

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: April 11, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

Stephanie Skaarup

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Harold Toppel Dam?

Harold Toppel 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 Harold Toppel Dam?

Harold Toppel Dam is owned by Stephanie Skaarup (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Harold Toppel Dam built?

Harold Toppel Dam was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Harold Toppel Dam?

Harold Toppel 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 Harold Toppel Dam?

Harold Toppel Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Harold Toppel Dam last inspected?

Harold Toppel Dam was last inspected on April 11, 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.