Sagamore Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Putnam, New York, the Sagamore Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1946.


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Summary

This concrete structure, with a height of 22 feet and a length of 275 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a maximum storage capacity of 1076 acre-feet and normal storage of 880 acre-feet. The dam's reservoir covers a surface area of 96 acres and is fed by the West Branch Croton River, with a drainage area of 5.91 square miles.

Managed by a private entity, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring its compliance with safety standards and conducting regular inspections. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2021, the dam poses moderate risks that are actively managed. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) may be in place to guide response efforts, although details on its preparation and review are not currently provided in the data.

Overall, the Sagamore Lake Dam stands as a vital resource for both water supply and recreation in the Town of Kent, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors and a source of environmental and hydrological significance. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining the integrity and safety of such structures will be crucial in ensuring the sustainability and resilience of water systems for future generations.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH CROTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

96

Drainage Area

5.91

Nid Storage

1076

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.