Washington Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Washington Lake Dam, located in Newburgh, Orange County, New York, is a vital structure managed by the local government for water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1909, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 2,300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 7,371 acre-feet. The dam holds back the waters of Silver Stream, serving as a critical resource for the surrounding area.

With a significant hazard potential but currently in satisfactory condition, Washington Lake Dam is regularly inspected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 16 feet, and while there are no associated structures, its role in water supply underscores its importance for the community. As a regulated and permitted structure, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating risks in the region.

Despite its moderate risk rating, Washington Lake Dam continues to provide essential water supply services while being monitored for any potential issues. Its strategic location and historical significance as a key water management facility make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental regulation, and community resilience.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SILVER STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

166

Drainage Area

0.76

Nid Storage

7371

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.