Wildwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wildwood Lake Dam, located in Squirrels Corners, New York, serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

Constructed in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 50 feet in length, providing a surface area of 45 acres for outdoor activities. With a normal storage capacity of 240 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 280 acre-feet, the dam offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation in the picturesque surroundings of TR-Ruddick Pond.

Managed by a private owner, Wildwood Lake Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. While the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, its condition is currently not rated. Despite not having an Emergency Action Plan in place, the dam's safety features, including an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 26 feet, contribute to its overall risk management measures. The last inspection in 2010 confirmed the dam's structural integrity, ensuring the safety of the surrounding community and wildlife.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the ecological importance of Wildwood Lake Dam as it maintains a delicate balance between recreation and resource management. As a key feature in the Philadelphia District, this dam on TR-Ruddick Pond not only provides a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts but also underscores the importance of responsible dam maintenance and regulatory oversight in preserving our natural waterways. With its historical significance and modern-day recreational value, Wildwood Lake Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human activity and environmental stewardship in the Sullivan County region of New York.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-RUDDICK POND

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Nid Storage

280

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.