Kensico Dam
Key Takeaway
Kensico Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 168 ft (taller than 99.5% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 1,843 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 116.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 93.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,218 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1916 (110 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00051 |
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
NYCDEP DAMS EAST OF THE HUDSON RIVER
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kensico Dam?
Kensico 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 Kensico Dam?
Kensico Dam is owned by NYCDEP DAMS EAST OF THE HUDSON RIVER (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kensico Dam built?
Kensico Dam was completed in 1916, making it 110 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 Kensico Dam?
Kensico Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Kensico Dam?
Kensico Dam has a dam height of 168 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 Kensico Dam last inspected?
Kensico Dam was last inspected on August 19, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.