Canopus Lake North End Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Canopus Lake North End Dam, located in Continental Village, New York, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1972 with a height of 20 feet and a length of 433 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation and other activities, with a normal storage capacity of 245 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 333 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Canopus Creek and has a surface area of 50 acres, providing a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Canopus Lake North End Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it has a moderate risk assessment level of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 10 feet, ensuring proper water flow management during periods of high discharge. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam remains a vital structure for the surrounding community and offers opportunities for outdoor recreational activities.

Visitors to Canopus Lake North End Dam can enjoy the tranquil beauty of the area while also being reassured by the moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential of the dam. With its close proximity to the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam represents a harmonious blend of natural and man-made structures that contribute to both the local ecosystem and recreational opportunities. The dam's role in water resource management and its scenic surroundings make it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of infrastructure and nature.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

433

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

CANOPUS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

1.03

Nid Storage

333

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.