White Birch Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
White Birch Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 21 ft (taller than 61.3% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 380 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 270 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 240 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00358 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
WHITE BIRCH LAKE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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Significant Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of White Birch Lake Dam?
White Birch 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 White Birch Lake Dam?
White Birch Lake Dam is owned by WHITE BIRCH LAKE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was White Birch Lake Dam built?
White Birch Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 White Birch Lake Dam?
White Birch 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 White Birch Lake Dam?
White Birch Lake Dam has a dam height of 21 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 White Birch Lake Dam last inspected?
White Birch Lake Dam was last inspected on October 1, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.