Westchester Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Westchester Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 10 ft (taller than 12.4% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 150 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 58 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Max Discharge | 260 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00019 |
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
WESTCHESTER LAKE HOMES ASSOCIATION
Private
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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Westchester Lake Dam?
Westchester 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 Westchester Lake Dam?
Westchester Lake Dam is owned by WESTCHESTER LAKE HOMES ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Westchester Lake Dam built?
Westchester 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 Westchester Lake Dam?
Westchester 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 Westchester Lake Dam?
Westchester Lake Dam has a dam height of 10 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 Westchester Lake Dam last inspected?
Westchester Lake Dam was last inspected on November 6, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.