William Mead Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: R & E Banks Dam Levy Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
William Mead Dam, also known as Mead Pond or Conifer Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Lexington, New York.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1968, this recreational dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 625 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres. The dam is situated on the TR-Schoharie Creek and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not yet assessed for condition, the dam poses a moderate risk due to its location and potential impact on downstream areas. The spillway, with a width of 57 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 365 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), it remains a significant feature for recreation in the area and is frequented by water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its design and management.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's risk management measures are not specified, and it is unclear if the EAP meets guidelines or if inundation maps have been prepared. Nonetheless, the dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor activities and serves as a critical infrastructure for water supply and management in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its current recreational purpose and regulatory oversight, make William Mead Dam an important site for enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SCHOHARIE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
145 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
William Mead Dam