Snow Bird Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Forestport Alder Pond
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Snow Bird Lake Dam, also known as Kincaid Dam, is a concrete structure located in Forestport Station, New York.
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Summary
Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this privately owned dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 165 feet. Situated on the LITTLE WOODHULL CREEK, the dam has a storage capacity of 331 acre-feet and a surface area of 47 acres, making it a significant feature in the area's water resource management.
Managed by the NYS DEC, Snow Bird Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition but meets the necessary guidelines for emergency preparedness. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of the USACE, the dam remains an essential structure for water control and recreational activities in the region, contributing to the overall sustainability and resilience of the local environment.
Overall, Snow Bird Lake Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure in the water resource management system of Oneida County, New York. With its controlled spillway, moderate risk assessment, and significant storage capacity, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential hazards. As a privately owned structure, it exemplifies the collaboration between government agencies and private entities in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
165 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE WOODHULL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
47 |
Drainage Area |
25 |
Nid Storage |
331 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Snow Bird Lake Dam