Wappingers Falls
Key Takeaway
Wappingers Falls is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1872 and is 154 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 | 20 ft (taller than 56.3% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 245 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 700 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 100 acres |
| Drainage Area | 200 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1872 (154 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00003 |
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
Village of Wappingers Falls, NY
Local Government
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High Hazard 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wappingers Falls?
Wappingers Falls 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 Wappingers Falls?
Wappingers Falls is owned by Village of Wappingers Falls, NY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wappingers Falls built?
Wappingers Falls was completed in 1872, making it 154 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 Wappingers Falls?
Wappingers Falls serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Navigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wappingers Falls?
Wappingers Falls has a dam height of 20 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 Wappingers Falls last inspected?
Wappingers Falls was last inspected on May 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.