Guilford Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Guilford Lake Dam, located in Guilford, New York, was completed in 1827 and serves as a crucial water supply source.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 15 feet and with a length of 62 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 560 acre-feet and normal storage of 390 acre-feet. It regulates the flow of Guilford Creek and has a spillway width of 44 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 1500 cubic feet per second.

Despite its historical significance and primary purpose of water supply, Guilford Lake Dam is categorized with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in May 2019 highlighted the need for improvements and maintenance. The dam poses a moderate risk level, prompting the consideration of risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure and surrounding areas.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Guilford Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of monitoring and maintaining critical infrastructure for water management. The dam's role in regulating water flow and storage underscores its significance in the local ecosystem and community. Efforts to address the dam's condition and implement risk management strategies are essential to safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential hazards in the region.

Year Completed

1827

Dam Length

62

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

GUILFORD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

74

Drainage Area

2.23

Nid Storage

560

Hazard Potential

High

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.