Pine Hill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pine Hill Lake Dam in Big Indian, Ulster County, New York, stands as a vital water resource managed by the state for both recreation and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1987, this earth dam boasts a height of 28 feet and a length of 1257 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 116 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide recreational opportunities while ensuring a reliable water supply for the surrounding area.

Situated on Birch Creek, Pine Hill Lake Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and undergoes regular inspections to maintain its structural integrity and ensure public safety. With a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 298 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle significant water flow and mitigate potential hazards. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk level, the dam's condition remains unrated, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures.

As a significant component of the local water infrastructure, Pine Hill Lake Dam plays a crucial role in both recreational enjoyment and water supply reliability. With its strategic location in the scenic surroundings of Ulster County, this dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and serves as a vital link in sustaining the natural environment and community well-being in the region.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

1257

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

BIRCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

116

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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.