Hessian Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hessian Lake Dam, located in Orange County, New York, is a state-regulated earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 9 feet and a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet, this dam serves to create a 45-acre lake for public enjoyment. Situated along the TR-Hudson River, this dam is owned and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Hessian Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection was conducted in 2002, and the dam has not undergone any modifications or enhancements since then. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is equipped with emergency action plans, although the details of these plans have not been updated or reviewed in recent years.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hessian Lake Dam an intriguing site for its unique design and ecological significance. As a vital part of the local landscape, this dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical infrastructure for water management in the region. With its rich history and potential for future enhancements, Hessian Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship.

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR-HUDSON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

215

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.