Putnam Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Putnam Lake Dam, located in the Village of Putnam Lake in New York, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond, as well as recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1931, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 295 feet, with a storage capacity of 2510 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment of fair, Putnam Lake Dam poses a moderate risk (3) according to the available data. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 30 feet, and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second. The dam's purpose, in addition to its storage capacity, highlights its importance in the local community for both practical and recreational uses, making it a key asset in the region's water resource management and climate adaptation strategies.

As a critical infrastructure for water management in Putnam County, the Putnam Lake Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding area. With its historical significance dating back nearly a century, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in maintaining a sustainable balance between human needs and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

295

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

BOG BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

232

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

2510

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.