Melody Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Melody Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 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 | 26 ft (taller than 73.4% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 120 ft |
| Dam Type | Stone |
| Max Storage | 620 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 410 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,607 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00748 |
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
MELODY LAKE ASSOCIATION
Private
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 23 ftEdward Decker Recreational Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 14 ftLong Pond Dam
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High Hazard 17 ftPapish Pond Dam
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High Hazard 12 ftBloody Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 12 ftGenegantslet Lake Dam
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High Hazard 10 ftGrassi-Corini-Grandolf Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Melody Lake Dam?
Melody 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 Melody Lake Dam?
Melody Lake Dam is owned by MELODY LAKE ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Melody Lake Dam built?
Melody Lake Dam was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Melody Lake Dam?
Melody 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 Melody Lake Dam?
Melody Lake Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Melody Lake Dam last inspected?
Melody Lake Dam was last inspected on August 31, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.