Caroga Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Newkirk Pond Dam Hillabrandt Vly Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Caroga Lake Dam, located in Fulton County, New York, is a privately owned structure regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
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Summary
Built in 1910, this timber crib dam stands at a height of 4 feet and spans 200 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 2,574 acre-feet. The dam serves as a crucial component in managing the water levels of the East Caroga Outlet, with a controlled spillway designed to handle a maximum discharge of 90 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Caroga Lake Dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2020, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community in the event of a potential breach. With a very high risk assessment rating, stakeholders are keenly focused on implementing necessary risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats associated with this essential water resource structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Caroga Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study in the intersection of historical infrastructure and modern regulatory practices. As a key element in the local water management system, this timber crib dam continues to play a vital role in supporting the ecological balance of the region while also facing the challenges of aging infrastructure and evolving safety standards. The ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts at Caroga Lake Dam underscore the critical importance of maintaining and safeguarding our water resources in the face of increasing climate-related risks.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
4 |
River Or Stream |
EAST CAROGA OUTLET |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
198 |
Drainage Area |
1.16 |
Nid Storage |
2574 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
4 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Caroga Lake - DEC
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Rock Lake tentsite
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West Stony Creek campsite #2
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West Stony Creek campsite #1
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Silver Lake tentsite
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Caroga Lake Dam