Old Forge Reservoir Dam

MIDDLE BRANCH MOOSE RIVER· Herkimer, New York· Built 1905· Concrete· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Old Forge Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1905 and is 121 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 49.5% in NY)
Dam Length129 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage22.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage9.0K acre-ft
Surface Area736 acres
Drainage Area55 sq mi
Max Discharge980 cfs
Year Completed1905 (121 years old)
NID IDNY00315

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: Yes
Last Inspection: June 30, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

HUDSON RIVER-BLACK RIVER REGULATING DISTRICT

State Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Old Forge Reservoir Dam?

Old Forge Reservoir 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 Old Forge Reservoir Dam?

Old Forge Reservoir Dam is owned by HUDSON RIVER-BLACK RIVER REGULATING DISTRICT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Old Forge Reservoir Dam built?

Old Forge Reservoir Dam was completed in 1905, making it 121 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 Old Forge Reservoir Dam?

Old Forge Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Old Forge Reservoir Dam?

Old Forge Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Old Forge Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Old Forge Reservoir Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2017. 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.