Buck Horn Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Buck Horn Lake Dam, located in Unadilla, New York, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this earth-type dam stands at 12 feet in height and stretches 300 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Meads Creek, covering a surface area of 63 acres and serving a drainage area of 2.12 square miles.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Buck Horn Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, the dam presents a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures and preparedness for emergencies. The dam's spillway, with a width of 36 feet, is of the uncontrolled type.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buck Horn Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity for recreation in the picturesque surroundings of Otsego County, New York. With its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and nature exploration. As a privately owned structure, it is essential for visitors and stakeholders to be mindful of safety guidelines and potential risks associated with the dam, while also appreciating its role in water management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
MEADS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
63 |
Drainage Area |
2.12 |
Nid Storage |
336 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
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