Blue Heron Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Blue Heron Lake Dam, located in Westchester, New York, serves as a recreational hub within the TR-CROSS RIVER RESERVOIR system.


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Summary

Built in 1936, this Earth-type dam stands at 15 feet high and stretches 140 feet long, with a storage capacity of 224 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is still in use and maintained by private owners under state regulations, including regular inspections by the NYS DEC.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 10 feet, is uncontrolled, posing a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment in 2017. Although the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, the dam has a history of modifications or improvements to manage potential risks. With a drainage area of 0.7 square miles and a surface area of 45 acres, Blue Heron Lake Dam remains a vital recreational site for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation within its picturesque surroundings.

While the dam's emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures are not explicitly detailed, its regulatory compliance and structural integrity are monitored to ensure public safety. With its historical significance, scenic beauty, and functional role in water resource management, Blue Heron Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure for both recreational enjoyment and environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-CROSS RIVER RESERVOIR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

224

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.