Howard Lafever Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lazio Pond Dam Betty Brook Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Howard Lafever Dam, located in South Kortright, New York, is a private earth dam completed in 1976 primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 17 feet and stretching 755 feet in length, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 159 acre-feet and normal storage of 98 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-W Branch Delaware River, the dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 35 feet and a maximum discharge of 60 cubic feet per second.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, with a risk assessment rating of moderate, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the NYS DEC. The last inspection in January 2019 revealed the need for improvements, with an inspection frequency of every 4 years. The emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures for the dam remain undisclosed, indicating potential areas for further assessment and action to ensure the safety and stability of the structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
755 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-W BRANCH DELAWARE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
159 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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