Melody Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Melody Lake Dam, located in Sullivan, New York, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 10 feet with a length of 192 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres. It is situated on Turner Brook and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).

The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a width of 17 feet, and it has a low hazard potential according to assessments. Although the condition of the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated," the risk assessment categorizes it as having a very high risk level. The last inspection took place in June 2009, and the dam meets state inspection, permitting, and enforcement requirements.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Melody Lake in Melody Lake City can appreciate the engineering and environmental significance of the Melody Lake Dam. As a recreational structure, it provides not only water storage but also opportunities for outdoor activities in a picturesque setting. The dam's presence on Turner Brook adds to the natural beauty of the area and highlights the importance of maintaining and ensuring the safety of such water management structures in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

192

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TURNER BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Nid Storage

67

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.