Davis Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Davis Lake Dam in Schuyler Falls, New York, stands as a concrete structure completed in 1957 with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 22 feet and a length of 230 feet, this dam holds a storage capacity of 418 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 40 acres. Situated on the Salmon River, it serves as a vital water resource for the local community, providing opportunities for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Despite its significance, Davis Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of September 2019. It is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in August 2019, and a high risk assessment rating of 2. The dam lacks a spillway and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, enforcing the necessary safety measures to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding area in case of emergencies.

With its outdated infrastructure and high-risk profile, Davis Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its location on the Salmon River and the surrounding Clinton County, New York, makes it a critical component of the local ecosystem. As efforts continue to assess and address its structural deficiencies, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the dam remains a top priority for the community and regulatory agencies alike.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

SALMON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

40

Drainage Area

36

Nid Storage

418

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.