Woodlands Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Woodlands Lake Dam, located in Ardsley, New York, is a masonry structure built in 1840 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 200 feet in length, this dam serves as a key feature for the Woodlands Lake area. The dam has a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres, making it a significant water resource for the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NYS DEC, Woodlands Lake Dam has a spillway width of 105 feet and is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam undergoes inspections every 4 years with the last one conducted in May 2018. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is closely monitored for any potential risks and emergency preparedness.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Woodlands Lake Dam presents an interesting case study of a historic masonry dam that continues to provide recreational opportunities while also highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. As one of the key structures along the Saw Mill River, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the Westchester County area.
Year Completed |
1840 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SAW MILL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
87 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Woodlands Lake Dam