Sturgeon Pool Dam

WALLKILL RIVER· Ulster, New York· Built 1922· Concrete· 109 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Sturgeon Pool Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 109 ft (taller than 98.8% in NY)
Dam Length670 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage10.9K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.9K acre-ft
Surface Area212 acres
Drainage Area787 sq mi
Max Discharge90,720 cfs
Year Completed1922 (104 years old)
NID IDNY00075

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 17, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sturgeon Pool Dam?

Sturgeon Pool 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 Sturgeon Pool Dam?

Sturgeon Pool Dam is owned by Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sturgeon Pool Dam built?

Sturgeon Pool 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 Sturgeon Pool Dam?

Sturgeon Pool Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Sturgeon Pool Dam?

Sturgeon Pool Dam has a dam height of 109 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 Sturgeon Pool Dam last inspected?

Sturgeon Pool Dam was last inspected on November 17, 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.