Owasco Lake Near Auburn Ny Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Owasco Lake is one of the Finger Lakes located near Auburn, NY.


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Summary

The lake has a rich history, with archaeological evidence suggesting Native American settlements dating back thousands of years. Today, the lake serves as a primary source of drinking water for the surrounding communities. The hydrology of the lake is influenced by several surface flow sources, including Owasco Inlet and several smaller creeks. In addition, snowpack from the surrounding hills contributes to the lake's water levels. Agricultural uses around the lake include vineyards and dairy farms. Recreational activities on the lake include boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake also provides opportunities for hiking and camping in the surrounding state parks. Efforts are underway to address concerns related to water quality and algae blooms.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Navd 1988, Ft 24hr Change -0.01%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 708.8 ft
2022-02-08
Maximum 717.61 ft
2022-12-25
Average 710 ft
       
Seasonal Comparison
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Navd 1988, Ft Levels

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.