Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Forest Lake Dam in Southfields, New York, is a privately owned structure regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.


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Summary

Situated on TR-ARDEN BROOK, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 480 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 256 acre-feet and a surface area of 138 acres, the dam poses a low hazard potential but is classified as having a very high risk due to its condition assessment not being rated.

Despite its low hazard potential, Forest Lake Dam highlights the importance of regular inspections and adherence to state regulations to ensure public safety. The last inspection conducted in 2011 revealed that the dam was not rated in terms of its condition assessment. Given its location in a high-risk area, it is crucial for the dam owner to take proactive measures to manage risks and continue meeting state guidelines to prevent any potential emergencies.

Forest Lake Dam's controlled spillway and its proximity to residential areas underscore the need for proper risk management measures. With a very high risk rating and limited information on emergency action plans, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining infrastructure to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard water resources in the face of climate variability and changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-ARDEN BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

138

Drainage Area

0.65

Nid Storage

256

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.