Lake Placid Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mill Pond Dam Chubb River Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Lake Placid Dam, located in Lake Placid, New York, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1904, this concrete dam stands at 7 feet high and spans 131 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 112,996 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,173 acres, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the area, supporting both recreational activities and water supply needs.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Lake Placid Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam, situated on Outlet Brook, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and a low hazard potential rating. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Placid Dam represents a significant infrastructure supporting both recreational and water supply purposes in Essex County, New York. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam continues to play a vital role in managing water resources and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. As a focal point for outdoor activities and a key component of the local landscape, Lake Placid Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
131 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
OUTLET BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
2173 |
Drainage Area |
19.85 |
Nid Storage |
112996 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Meadowbrook - DEC
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Wilmington Notch - DEC
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Wanika Falls campsite
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Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake
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Lake Placid Dam