Schuyler Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Schuyler Lake Dam, also known as Russell Lake, is a private dam located in Cobleskill, New York.
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Summary
Built in 1931, this earth dam stands at 17 feet high and spans 270 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet of water for recreational purposes. Situated on the TR-Cobleskill Creek, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Schuyler Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk level. The dam's spillway, with a width of 15 feet, is uncontrolled and has a maximum discharge capacity of 235 cubic feet per second. In the event of an emergency, the dam is subject to a four-year inspection frequency to assess any necessary risk management measures. While the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, its location in Schoharie County makes it an important water resource for the surrounding area.
Schuyler Lake Dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts and climate activists to appreciate the intersection of water management and environmental conservation. With its historical significance dating back nearly a century, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As stakeholders continue to monitor and maintain the dam's condition, its role in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the local ecosystem remains vital for the community and its surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
1931 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COBLESKILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Schuyler Lake Dam