Lake Flower
Key Takeaway
Lake Flower is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 19 ft (taller than 53.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 97 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 6.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,360 acres |
| Drainage Area | 179 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00707 |
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
Village of Saranac Lake, NY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 7 ftLake Clear Outlet Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftMill Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 18 ftBartlett Carry Dam
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Significant Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Flower?
Lake Flower 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 Lake Flower?
Lake Flower is owned by Village of Saranac Lake, NY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Flower built?
Lake Flower was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Lake Flower?
Lake Flower serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Flower?
Lake Flower has a dam height of 19 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 Lake Flower last inspected?
Lake Flower was last inspected on July 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.