Bruce A. Blakeman
Nassau County Executive
Michael Kwaschyn, P.E.
Commissioner
Upper Massapequa Lake Dam Maintenance Project
Project Overview
The Upper Massapequa Lake Dam is an earthen structure built in 1900 on Massapequa Creek and is used primarily for recreation. In 2023, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation issued a letter to Nassau County changing the hazard class of the dam which required maintenance activities to be performed. Permit documents were prepared and the NYSDEC approved the proposed maintenance activities, these include removal of all tress and vegetation, regrading of eroded areas, and cleaning of vegetation and sediment within the spillway.
Project Details
Duration: 2 Months
Timeline: Summer 2026 - Fall 2026
Impacts: Vegetation will be removed, area will be regraded, spillway will be cleaned
Work Hours: 7:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.
Safety Measures: Silt fencing will be used for soil erosion and sedimentation control. Pedestrian traffic will be routed around the work area.
NYSDEC Permit Number: 1-2824-02105/00023
Project Details
Update Date: August 2026
Percent Completed: 0.00%
Overview: The Contractor is mobilizing to begin work the end of Summer 2026.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the trees being removed?
A: As trees grow on earthen dams, the roots grow deeper into the dam over time and can create seepage paths for water to travel through, compromising the dams integrity. When a tree dies or is blown over, this can pull out the tress root ball and cause breaches. The trees are being removed to ensure the integrity of the dam.
Q: Will the dirt path be restored when construction is complete?
A: Yes, a new gravel pathway will be placed at the crest of the dam. The existing paved bike path will also remain.
Q: How long will the project take?
A: The project is anticipated to be completed in two months.
Q: How will debris be kept out of the water will work is ongoing?
A: Silt fencing, hay bales, and silt curtains will be used to keep debris out of the water.
Q: Are there any considerations to protect wildlife?
A: Yes, to protect the migration of the American Eel, work is prohibited from March 1 to May 31.