Spruce Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kehler Dam Beaver Brook Site #1 Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Spruce Lake Dam, located in Paper Mill Corners, New York, is a masonry dam completed in 1897 for the primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
With a height of 18 feet and a length of 120 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 460 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 1060 acre-feet, serving the local community's water needs. The dam is situated on Spruce Creek and is under the regulatory authority of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Despite its historical significance and vital role in water supply, Spruce Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2019 indicated the need for improvements to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of implementing risk management measures to address any potential vulnerabilities and safeguard the surrounding area from potential hazards. As a key water resource infrastructure in Herkimer County, Spruce Lake Dam requires ongoing attention and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure continued reliable water supply for the community.
Year Completed |
1897 |
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
SPRUCE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
100 |
Drainage Area |
36 |
Nid Storage |
1060 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Canada Creek At Kast Bridge Ny
|
2420cfs |
Mohawk River Near Little Falls Ny
|
8070cfs |
East Canada Creek At East Creek Ny
|
35cfs |
Steele Cr At Ilion Ny
|
118cfs |
West Canada Creek Near Wilmurt Ny
|
257cfs |
Otsquago Creek At Fort Plain Ny
|
375cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Spruce Lake Dam