Lake Abanakee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lake Abanakee Dam, located in North River, Hamilton County, New York, is a local government-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 305 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 5,743 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Indian River and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Lake Abanakee Dam is a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure. It serves as a recreational hub, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities on its 360-acre surface area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 134 feet, helps manage peak discharges of up to 6,870 cubic feet per second, contributing to the overall flood risk management in the region. Despite not having a current condition assessment, the dam continues to provide essential water storage and recreational benefits to the community.

Overall, Lake Abanakee Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As a key feature on the Indian River, this earth dam not only supports local recreation but also plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction and water supply management. With state oversight and regular inspections in place, the dam remains a safe and reliable structure, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

INDIAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

360

Drainage Area

196

Nid Storage

5743

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.