Keuka Lake Outlet Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
The Keuka Lake Outlet Dam, located in Penn Yan, New York, was completed in 1880 and serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Keuka Lake Outlet.
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Summary
This concrete dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 100 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 165,000 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, although it also provides recreational opportunities in the area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Keuka Lake Outlet Dam has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The controlled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, helps manage water flow during peak periods and prevent downstream flooding.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Keuka Lake Outlet Dam represents a crucial infrastructure project that plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flood events. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective water management practices in safeguarding our natural environment and public safety.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
KEUKA LAKE OUTLET |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
11712 |
Drainage Area |
182 |
Nid Storage |
165000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Keuka Lake State Park
|
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Camp Whitman
|
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Sampson State Park
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Keuka Lake Outlet Dam