Silver Mine Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Silver Mine Lake Dam, located in Fort Montgomery, Orange County, New York, is a state-regulated structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1934, this earth dam stands at 36 feet tall and spans 445 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 1180 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Queensboro Brook, serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities in a scenic natural setting.

Despite its recreational appeal, Silver Mine Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam's inspection frequency is set at four years, with the last assessment conducted in October 2019. While the risk associated with this structure is considered moderate, there are no specific risk management measures or inundation maps currently prepared for potential emergencies. With a spillway width of 125 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 1200 cubic feet per second.

As a key feature in the region's water resource infrastructure, it is essential for stakeholders and officials to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of Silver Mine Lake Dam to ensure public safety and preserve the surrounding environment. Vigilant monitoring, regular inspections, and the implementation of effective risk management strategies are crucial to mitigate any potential hazards and safeguard the integrity of this recreational asset in Orange County.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

445

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

QUEENSBORO BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84

Drainage Area

3.58

Nid Storage

1180

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

36
       
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.