Colt Estate Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Colt Estate Dam, also known as Cecelia Lake, is a private dam located in Putnam, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1908, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 127 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-Hudson River, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Colt Estate Dam is regulated, permitted, and inspected by state authorities. With a spillway width of 8 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has a significant hazard potential and is categorized as having a moderate risk level. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and integrity. Additionally, emergency action plans are in place, although the last revision was made in 2016.

A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Colt Estate Dam provides a picturesque backdrop for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While maintaining its historical significance as a century-old structure, the dam continues to be a vital resource for the community, offering opportunities for both enjoyment and environmental conservation along the banks of the Hudson River.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

127

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-HUDSON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.