Scotts Reservoir Dam

WEST BRANCH SILVERMINE CREEK· Westchester, New York· Built 1883· Earth· 23 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Scotts Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1883 and is 143 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 66% in NY)
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage54 acre-ft
Normal Storage40 acre-ft
Surface Area11 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1883 (143 years old)
NID IDNY00789

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: November 9, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

NORWALK FIRST TAXING DISTRICT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Scotts Reservoir Dam?

Scotts 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 Scotts Reservoir Dam?

Scotts Reservoir Dam is owned by NORWALK FIRST TAXING DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Scotts Reservoir Dam built?

Scotts Reservoir Dam was completed in 1883, making it 143 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 Scotts Reservoir Dam?

Scotts 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 Scotts Reservoir Dam?

Scotts Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Scotts Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Scotts Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 9, 2020. 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.