Wasserlauf Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Black Lake Dam Lake Superior Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Wasserlauf Dam, located in Sullivan, New York, is a private earth dam completed in 1954 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 12 feet and stretching 490 feet in length, the dam holds a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres. The dam is situated on the TR-BLACK LAKE river or stream, under the regulatory oversight of the NYS DEC, ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement compliance.
Despite its low hazard potential, Wasserlauf Dam has a moderate risk assessment level of 3, indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures. The uncontrolled spillway with a width of 26 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 262 cubic feet per second. The dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, with the last inspection conducted in November 2011. While an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is not currently prepared or updated, the dam's risk management measures and response protocols are crucial for ensuring the safety of the surrounding area in case of any emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wasserlauf Dam presents an interesting case study in dam construction and management. The dam's location in a scenic area of New York, coupled with its recreational purpose, highlights the importance of balancing human enjoyment with environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact hydrological patterns and water resource management, ensuring the safety and integrity of dams like Wasserlauf Dam becomes increasingly critical. By staying informed about the dam's condition, risk assessment, and emergency response preparedness, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK LAKE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Drainage Area |
0.66 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
White Lake Covenanter Camp
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Lander's Skinners Falls Campground
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Lander's Narrowsburg Campground
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Morningside Park
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Wasserlauf Dam
Starlight Road 55, Monticello