Crystal Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Storms Dam Vincent Manzo Dam & Dike
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Stetsonville, New York, Crystal Lake Dam stands as a symbol of recreational bliss amidst the tranquil setting of Crystal Lake.
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Summary
Built in 1920, this concrete dam boasts a height of 11 feet and a length of 48 feet, providing a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers visitors a peaceful escape to enjoy water activities and scenic views on its 26-acre surface area.
Managed by a private owner, Crystal Lake Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam has not been inspected since April 1998. Despite its age, Crystal Lake Dam continues to be a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in Otsego County, New York.
Surrounded by the beauty of Butternut Creek and under the jurisdiction of the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Crystal Lake Dam remains a vital recreational asset in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway, maintained by the private owner, ensures the safety and functionality of the dam for visitors. As climate change poses new challenges to water resources, the preservation and proper management of Crystal Lake Dam serve as a testament to the importance of sustainable practices in maintaining our natural environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
48 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUTTERNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
26 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chenango River At Sherburne Ny
|
286cfs |
Unadilla River At Rockdale Ny
|
494cfs |
Ouleout Creek At East Sidney Ny
|
166cfs |
Susquehanna River At Unadilla Ny
|
1000cfs |
Steele Cr At Ilion Ny
|
27cfs |
Susquehanna River At Bainbridge Ny
|
1640cfs |
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.
Crystal Lake Dam