Cortlandt Lake Dam, located in Cortlandt, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1929 with a primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 37 feet and stretching 225 feet in length, the dam overlooks the picturesque Sprout Brook and offers a surface area of 17 acres for visitors to enjoy. With a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6700 cubic feet per second, the dam provides both a serene environment for recreational activities and essential flood protection for the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Cortlandt Lake Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam has a history of regular inspections, with the most recent one conducted in November 2020, and a designated emergency action plan in place. Despite its moderate risk assessment, measures for risk management and potential inundation maps are yet to be developed. As a significant landmark in the region, Cortlandt Lake Dam serves as a crucial water resource for the community while also offering a safe and enjoyable environment for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.
Overall, Cortlandt Lake Dam stands as a symbol of both natural beauty and engineering prowess, showcasing the harmonious balance between water resource management and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact our planet, the importance of sustainable infrastructure like Cortlandt Lake Dam becomes increasingly evident. By prioritizing regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness, this historic dam serves as a key example of how effective water resource management can both support local communities and protect the environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
SPROUT BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
15.15 |
Nid Storage |
244 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
37 |