Lake Superior Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lake Superior Dam, located in Sullivan, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1920 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 7 feet and a length of 210 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and has a maximum discharge of 4,871 cubic feet per second. It is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, indicating potential vulnerabilities that need to be managed. The spillway of Lake Superior Dam is uncontrolled with a width of 12 feet, allowing for the release of excess water during periods of high flow. The dam also has a surface area of 185 acres and is situated on the TR-BLACK LAKE river or stream, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Overall, Lake Superior Dam serves as a vital structure for both recreational purposes and water management in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its role in regulating water flow and storage, highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this critical infrastructure.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK LAKE

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

185

Drainage Area

4.84

Nid Storage

1250

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.