Forked Lake Sluiceway Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Located in Deerland, Hamilton, New York, the Forked Lake Sluiceway Dam stands as a vital structure along the Raquette River.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a storage capacity of 26,208 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1,248 acres. With a height of 15 feet and a length of 75 feet, the dam's maximum discharge capacity reaches 2,700 cubic feet per second, ensuring efficient water management in the region.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Forked Lake Sluiceway Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not rated for condition assessment, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With Elise M. Stefanik representing the area in Congress, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and protecting the surrounding environment.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Forked Lake Sluiceway Dam a fascinating example of hydraulic engineering in action. As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, the dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a crucial tool for flood control and water storage along the Raquette River. Its strategic location and efficient design highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding communities and ecosystems in New York.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

75

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

RAQUETTE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1248

Drainage Area

64.5

Nid Storage

26208

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.