Ida Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Ida Lake Dam, also known as Belden Pond or Mt Ida Dam, is a vital structure located in Troy, New York, along the Poestenkill river.


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Summary

Constructed in 1912, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres. Despite its age, the dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 180 feet in length, making it an impressive sight for water resource and climate enthusiasts to admire.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the NYS DEC, Ida Lake Dam has a low hazard potential but is in poor condition as of the last assessment in 2018. With a moderate risk level of 3, the dam presents some concerns that require attention. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and measures 140 feet in width, is a key feature that helps manage water levels in case of excess flow. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, regular inspections and enforcement by state agencies ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

As a key component of the local landscape, Ida Lake Dam offers both recreational opportunities and important water management functions. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance needs, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate resilience, Ida Lake Dam provides a fascinating case study to explore.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

POESTENKILL

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

94

Nid Storage

95

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.