Morningside Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Morningside Lake Dam, located in South Fallsburg, New York, is a concrete structure completed in 1945 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans a length of 220 feet, with a storage capacity of 475 acre-feet. It is situated on the Sheldrake Stream and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam poses a very high risk due to its condition assessment being listed as "Not Rated." The last inspection was conducted in June 2011, and no emergency action plan or inundation maps have been prepared. The dam is under state jurisdiction and is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morningside Lake Dam serves as an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its recreational purpose and historical significance, the dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water infrastructure, environmental regulations, and emergency preparedness in the face of potential hazards. Researchers and policymakers alike may find value in further examining the risk management measures and potential updates needed for this dam to ensure the safety and sustainability of Morningside Lake and its surrounding community.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SHELDRAKE STREAM

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

130

Drainage Area

0.69

Nid Storage

475

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.