Fred Denman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Fred Denman Lake Dam, located in Livingston Manor, New York, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and extends for 370 feet, with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the TR-Little Beaver Kill river and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.

Despite being privately owned, Fred Denman Lake Dam falls under New York State jurisdiction and is regulated by the NYS DEC. It is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 19 feet, allows for the controlled release of water during high flow events, minimizing the risk of overtopping and potential downstream flooding.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fred Denman Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while managing water flow and storage underscores the importance of sustainable dam management practices in mitigating risks and promoting environmental resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE BEAVER KILL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.