First Lake At Old Forge Ny Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

First Lake is a popular recreational destination located in Old Forge, New York.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The lake was formed by the construction of a dam on the Moose River in the early 1900s. It has a surface area of approximately 377 acres and a maximum depth of 40 feet. The hydrology of the lake is primarily fed by surface flow from the Moose River and snowpack during the winter months. The lake is used for a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. There are also several agricultural uses in the surrounding area including dairy farming and hay production. The lake is part of the Adirondack Park, which is a protected area in New York State that provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife species.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Navd 1988, Ft 24hr Change 0.0%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 1,702.8 ft
2020-02-25
Maximum 1,707.57 ft
2021-08-20
Average 1,705 ft
Dam_Height 18
Drainage_Area 55.1
Year_Completed 1905
Nid_Storage 22610
Surface_Area 736
River_Or_Stream MIDDLE BRANCH MOOSE RIVER
Dam_Length 129
Hazard_Potential Significant
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Nid_Height 18
       
Seasonal Comparison
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Navd 1988, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.