Lows Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Lows Lake Dam, also known as Hitchins Pond, is a concrete structure located in Mountain Camp, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1903, this dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with an impressive storage capacity of 21,500 acre-feet. Situated on the Bog River, this dam boasts a controlled spillway type with a width of 12 feet, ensuring efficient water management during high flow events.

Despite its age, Lows Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment as of yet. With a very high risk assessment rating of 1, the dam is closely monitored by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. The dam's location in the St. Lawrence County provides a vital recreational resource for water enthusiasts, offering a serene environment for activities like boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.

With its historical significance and importance for water supply and recreation in the area, Lows Lake Dam stands as a testament to early engineering ingenuity. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Lows Lake Dam will be crucial in ensuring sustainable water management practices for future generations of enthusiasts and environmental stewards.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

170

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

BOG RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2759

Drainage Area

37

Nid Storage

21500

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.