Hope Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hope Lake Dam, also known as Greek Peak Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in East Virgil, Cortland, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1998, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 30 feet and a length of 1132 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 398 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 22 acres.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Hope Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 252 feet, capable of discharging a maximum flow of 3007 cubic feet per second. The hazard potential of the dam is considered significant, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness.

Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, Hope Lake Dam remains a focal point for outdoor recreation and water-based activities in the region. With its tranquil surroundings and essential role in water resource management, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of environmental stewardship and community engagement in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

1132

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TULLER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

398

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.