Mirror Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crystal Lake Dam Lock C-12
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Mirror Lake Dam, located in Washington County, New York, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1991, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans a length of 450 feet, with a storage capacity of 165 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Mettawee River, the dam serves a primary purpose of water storage and flood control, with a normal storage capacity of 93 acre-feet.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Mirror Lake Dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), with the state exercising jurisdiction over its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 18 feet, and its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." While the dam has not been modified in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, its risk management measures and inundation maps are not explicitly documented in the available data.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mirror Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in private dam ownership and state regulation. With its strategic location on the TR-Mettawee River and its role in water storage and flood control, this earth dam provides valuable insights into the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate. As efforts to assess and mitigate risks associated with dams continue to evolve, the unique characteristics of Mirror Lake Dam highlight the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of critical water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-METTAWEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
165 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Mirror Lake Dam
Kinni Kinnic Lane Poultney