Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 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 | 35 ft (taller than 83.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Buttress |
| Max Storage | 606 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 575 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 210 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00026 |
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
CITY OF BEACON
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lake Valhalla Dam
Putnam, NY
Significant Hazard 19 ftCold Spring Dam (Upper)
Putnam, NY
High Hazard 23 ftCold Spring Dam (Lower)
Putnam, NY
High Hazard 25 ftGroveville
Dutchess, NY
High Hazard 37 ftBraendly Fishkill Dam
Dutchess, NY
Significant Hazard 18 ftTexaco Research Center Dam
Dutchess, NY
High Hazard 22 ftMelzingah Dam
Dutchess, NY
High Hazard 51 ftLake Surprise Dam
Putnam, NY
Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam?
Mount Beacon Reservoir 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 Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam?
Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF BEACON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam built?
Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam?
Mount Beacon Reservoir 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 Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam?
Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Mount Beacon Reservoir Dam was last inspected on April 10, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.