West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam

SAND CREEK· Albany, New York· Built 1980· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 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 21 ft (taller than 61.3% in NY)
Dam Length180 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage61 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge21 cfs
Year Completed1980 (46 years old)
NID IDNY01491

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: April 2, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

TOWN OF COLONIE

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam?

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A 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 West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam?

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam is owned by TOWN OF COLONIE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam built?

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam?

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam?

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam has a dam height of 21 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 West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam last inspected?

West Albany Storm Retention Basin A Dam was last inspected on April 2, 2019. 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.