Lake Woodstock Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Lake Woodstock Dam, located in South Berne, New York, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this masonry dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-SWITZ KILL river, the dam spans 56 feet in length and covers a surface area of 12 acres, with a drainage area of 1.05 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in 1993, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. The spillway type is noted as uncontrolled, indicating a potential risk factor in case of excessive water flow. The dam's location within Albany County, New York, adds to its significance as a water resource for the region, showcasing the intersection of recreational and environmental interests in managing water infrastructure.

Lake Woodstock Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation, with its recreational purpose harmonizing with its state-regulated status. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the implications of dam infrastructure on water management, the case of Lake Woodstock Dam offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in balancing human needs with environmental protection in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

56

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-SWITZ KILL

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

1.05

Nid Storage

108

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.