Cuba Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cuba Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1872 and is 154 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 55 ft (taller than 93.4% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 1,750 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 16.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 465 acres |
| Drainage Area | 25 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1872 (154 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00455 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CUBA LAKE DISTRICT;New York State Office of General Services
Private
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High Hazard 51 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cuba Lake Dam?
Cuba Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cuba Lake Dam?
Cuba Lake Dam is owned by CUBA LAKE DISTRICT;New York State Office of General Services (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cuba Lake Dam built?
Cuba Lake Dam was completed in 1872, making it 154 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cuba Lake Dam?
Cuba Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cuba Lake Dam?
Cuba Lake Dam has a dam height of 55 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Cuba Lake Dam last inspected?
Cuba Lake Dam was last inspected on August 20, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.