Putnam Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Putnam Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1931 and is 95 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 | 24 ft (taller than 68.1% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 295 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 232 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1931 (95 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00090 |
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
TOWN OF PATTERSON
Local Government
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High Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Putnam Lake Dam?
Putnam 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 Putnam Lake Dam?
Putnam Lake Dam is owned by TOWN OF PATTERSON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Putnam Lake Dam built?
Putnam Lake Dam was completed in 1931, making it 95 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 Putnam Lake Dam?
Putnam Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Putnam Lake Dam?
Putnam Lake Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Putnam Lake Dam last inspected?
Putnam Lake Dam was last inspected on November 20, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.