Mckenzie Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wolf Pond Dam Camp Adirondack Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
McKenzie Pond Dam, located in Saranac Lake, New York, is a vital structure owned by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 7 feet and a length of 154 feet, serves the primary purpose of water supply. With a storage capacity of 480 acre-feet and a surface area of 240 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam, constructed on McKenzie Brook, has a spillway width of 55 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in July 1992, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of infrastructure like McKenzie Pond Dam in safeguarding water supply and mitigating risks associated with natural disasters.
As a key component of the local water supply system, McKenzie Pond Dam plays a significant role in water management in Essex County, New York. With its controlled spillway and storage capacity of 480 acre-feet, the dam helps regulate water flow in McKenzie Brook and provides vital water resources for the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the dam's resilience in the face of changing climate conditions and potential risks. The dam's location in a moderate-risk area underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding community against potential threats.
Dam Length |
154 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
MCKENZIE BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
240 |
Drainage Area |
2.7 |
Nid Storage |
480 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Meadowbrook - DEC
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Wanika Falls campsite
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Wilmington Notch - DEC
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Wilderness Campground at Heart Lake
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Mckenzie Pond Dam
Moose Pond