Sterling Forest Lake Dam, also known as Blue Lake Dam or Eagle Valley Lake, is a private dam located in Eagle Valley, Orange County, New York.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1953, this concrete structure stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 320 feet in length. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 1380 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1200 acre-feet.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Sterling Forest Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location on TR-Ringwood Creek and has a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cfs to manage potential flood events effectively.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sterling Forest Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural systems in managing water resources for recreation and water supply purposes. With its picturesque setting and strategic design, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of careful monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-RINGWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
115 |
Drainage Area |
2.7 |
Nid Storage |
1380 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |