Silver Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Silver Lake Dam, located in East Middletown, New York, stands as a recreational oasis with a primary purpose of offering leisure activities to visitors.


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Summary

This concrete structure, completed in 1923, boasts a height of 12 feet and a length of 375 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Masonic Creek, serves as a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape.

Despite its low hazard potential, Silver Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a focus on risk management measures to address any potential vulnerabilities. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 50 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 1700 cubic feet per second, providing a crucial function in managing water flow during periods of high precipitation.

As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Silver Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural surroundings. With its recreational purpose and regulated status, this concrete structure serves as both a practical resource and a picturesque destination for those looking to connect with nature in Orange County, New York.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

MASONIC CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

10.9

Nid Storage

260

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.