Otsego Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Moe Pond Dam Mt. Miles Inc. Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Otsego Lake Dam, located in Cooperstown, New York, is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1900, this buttress dam stands at a height of 11 feet and spans 70 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 345,320 acre-feet. Situated on the Susquehanna River, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and ensuring a steady supply for the surrounding area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Otsego Lake Dam is considered to have a high risk level, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam has not been rated for its condition, and the last inspection took place in October 2011. While there are no spillways present, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified in the data. With a drainage area of 68.34 square miles and a surface area of 4225 acres, Otsego Lake Dam serves as a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and protect.
As an integral structure within the water infrastructure of Otsego, New York, Otsego Lake Dam provides essential recreational opportunities while also supporting water supply needs for the community. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam's role in regulating water levels and storage capacity highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk assessment. As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources, maintaining the integrity and safety of Otsego Lake Dam is crucial for safeguarding the local environment and residents who rely on its services.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
70 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
SUSQUEHANNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
4225 |
Drainage Area |
68.34 |
Nid Storage |
345320 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
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.
Otsego Lake Dam