Woodward Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Woodward Lake Dam, located in Northville, New York, serves as a vital structure along the TR-Sacandaga River for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1928, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans a length of 620 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1,120 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 460 acre-feet. The dam's significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment highlight the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 70 feet wide, plays a crucial role in managing water discharge during periods of high flow. With a drainage area of 3.8 square miles and a surface area of 96 acres, Woodward Lake Dam contributes to the overall water resource management in the region. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam remains a key feature for both recreational activities and environmental conservation efforts along the Sacandaga River.

As the primary source of agency oversight for this private-owned dam, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulates its operations, inspections, and enforcement. The dam's location in Fulton County, New York, underlines its importance in maintaining water levels and flow for the surrounding communities and ecosystem. With a comprehensive understanding of Woodward Lake Dam's infrastructure and purpose, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate its role in balancing recreation, conservation, and safety considerations.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-SACANDAGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

96

Drainage Area

3.8

Nid Storage

1120

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
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.