Kirk Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kirk Lake Dam, located in Mahopac Falls, New York, is a historic masonry dam completed in 1871 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 28 feet tall and spanning a length of 225 feet, this dam holds a storage capacity of 1822 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 1705 acre-feet. The dam regulates the Muscoot River and covers a surface area of 124 acres within a drainage area of 3.1 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Kirk Lake Dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential. With a spillway width of 123 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 3650 cubic feet per second, the dam provides essential flood control measures for the surrounding area. Regular inspections are conducted, the last one being in March 2020, with a hazard potential rating of moderate.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Kirk Lake Dam for its historical significance, recreational value, and critical role in water supply management. As a key structure in the region, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam maintenance and risk management to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area. With its picturesque location and vital functions, Kirk Lake Dam is a site worth exploring for those interested in the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1871

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-MUSCOOT RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

124

Drainage Area

3.1

Nid Storage

1822

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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.