Tanzman Lake Dam

TR-LITTLE BEAVER KILL· Sullivan, New York· Built 1950· Earth· 17 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Tanzman Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 17 ft (taller than 46.3% in NY)
Dam Length440 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage167 acre-ft
Normal Storage77 acre-ft
Surface Area20 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge1,000 cfs
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDNY01280

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 1, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

THE LEGENDS OF TANZMAN LAKE HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATION

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Tanzman Lake Dam?

Tanzman Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Tanzman Lake Dam?

Tanzman Lake Dam is owned by THE LEGENDS OF TANZMAN LAKE HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Tanzman Lake Dam built?

Tanzman Lake Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Tanzman Lake Dam?

Tanzman 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 Tanzman Lake Dam?

Tanzman Lake Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Tanzman Lake Dam last inspected?

Tanzman Lake Dam was last inspected on December 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.