Gate Valve in dam is CLOSED with fixed overflow level - yet the lake level changes. Why?
The Gate valve is closed, and the top/ overflow level is constant all summer (barring too much rain). The top/ overflow elevation is set at the maximum elevation allowed by NYSDOT. The lake level will go up as runoff increases after rain events... then the lake level will gradually fall during periods without significant rain. During periods without rain, most streams and springs will still be flowing into the lake - albeit at slower rates. So, even during prolonged periods without rain, you may still see water overflowing the top of the Gate valve. During these periods, you can rest assured the FLWF has the overflow height set as high as possible.
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