Lamson Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lamson Dike is a crucial water resource structure located in Orange County, New York, serving as a key component of the Shawangunk Lake water supply system.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 190 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. The dam primarily functions to provide water supply to the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.3 acres.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Lamson Dike has a low hazard potential but exhibits a high risk level according to current assessments. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2018. While it lacks certain emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), the structure remains a vital asset for water management in the region. With its importance as a water supply source and the potential risks associated with its operation, Lamson Dike stands as a significant infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and study in the years to come.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SHAWANGUNK LAKE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.