Second Bisby Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in North Wilmurt, Herkimer, New York, the Second Bisby Lake Dam is a private recreational structure that was completed in 1914.


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Summary

With a dam height of 8 feet and a length of 115 feet, this earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 110 acres. The dam is situated on the TR-BLACK RIVER and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the Second Bisby Lake Dam has a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 16 feet and has not been inspected since August 31, 1971. While its condition is currently not rated, the dam is in a state of moderate risk, prompting the need for further assessment and risk management measures to ensure its safety and integrity for the future.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Second Bisby Lake Dam represents an interesting case study in recreational dam infrastructure. Its historical significance, combined with its current risk assessment, offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of human intervention in natural water systems and the ongoing challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

115

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

110

Nid Storage

300

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.