Kushaqua Lake Outlet Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rainbow Lake Dam Franklin Falls
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Franklin, New York, the Kushaqua Lake Outlet Dam, also known as Lake Kushaqua, serves as a crucial structure for both recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1948, this concrete dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 75 feet, with a storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet. Situated on the North Branch Saranac River, this dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Kushaqua Lake Outlet Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam remains a key infrastructure for the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 550 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 8,953 acre-feet. With its controlled spillway and strategic location, the dam ensures the safety and sustainability of the area's water resources.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, the Kushaqua Lake Outlet Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and maintenance. With its very high risk assessment rating, stakeholders must remain vigilant in monitoring and addressing any potential concerns to ensure the long-term functionality and resilience of this critical infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kushaqua Lake Outlet Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of engineering, environmental conservation, and community stewardship.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
75 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH BRANCH SARANAC RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
377 |
Drainage Area |
30 |
Nid Storage |
10000 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Kushaqua Lake Outlet Dam