Nuclear Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nuclear Lake Dam, situated in West Pawling, New York, is a Federal-owned structure regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.


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Summary

Completed in 1936, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 200 feet, with a storage capacity of 208 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, serving as a key feature in the surrounding landscape.

Managed by the National Park Service, Nuclear Lake Dam is considered to have a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available." The dam has a normal storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, with a surface area of 57 acres and a drainage area of 1.01 square miles. While the last inspection took place in December 2015, the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment details are also unavailable.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate may find the intricate details of Nuclear Lake Dam's construction and regulatory oversight fascinating. With a proximity to the TR-Whaley Lake Stream and a notable association with the National Park Service, this dam presents both a recreational and environmental focal point in Dutchess County, New York.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-WHALEY LAKE STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57

Drainage Area

1.01

Nid Storage

208

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

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.