Palmer Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Palmer Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in New York. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is other.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 83.6% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 410 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 333 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 65 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,780 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00687 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
NYS DEC
State Government
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Significant Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Palmer Lake Dam?
Palmer Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Palmer Lake Dam?
Palmer Lake Dam is owned by NYS DEC (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Palmer Lake Dam built?
Palmer Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Palmer Lake Dam?
Palmer Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Palmer Lake Dam?
Palmer Lake Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Palmer Lake Dam last inspected?
Palmer Lake Dam was last inspected on September 19, 2011. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.