Cooper Lake Dam and West Dike, located in Shady, Ulster, New York, serve as crucial components for water supply in the region.
Wind
Humidity
Owned by the local government and regulated by the NYS DEC, the dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches 460 feet in length. Completed in 1800, this earth-type dam boasts a storage capacity of 3683 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 241 acres, drawing water from the Saw Kill river.
Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is deemed as poor with a high hazard potential, indicating a pressing need for maintenance and improvements. The spillway, with a width of 24 feet, remains uncontrolled, posing risks in case of extreme discharge events. The inspection frequency is set at 2 years, with the last assessment conducted in April 2020. With a moderate risk rating and a history of modifications undocumented, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are yet to be fully established, raising concerns for potential safety hazards and environmental impacts.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area will find Cooper Lake Dam and West Dike to be a focal point for water supply infrastructure in Ulster, New York. With a rich history dating back to the 1800s, this dam faces challenges in its maintenance and risk management, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and reliability of this vital water resource structure.
Year Completed |
1800 |
Dam Length |
460 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
SAW KILL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
241 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
3683 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
40 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kenneth L. Wilson - DEC
|
||
Devils Tombstone - DEC
|
||
Rip Van Winkle Camping
|
||
Koa Camping
|
||
Woodland Valley - DEC
|
||
North/South Lake - DEC
|