Dryden Lake Dam: New York State Needs to Fix Its Own Property
Statement by Dan Wakeman, Candidate for Tompkins County Legislature, District 10
September 26, 2025

Dryden Lake is an important part of Dryden, and of Tompkins County, serving as a wildlife refuge, fishery, bird habitat and migratory layover, and as a beautiful gathering and recreation place for residents and visitors alike. Unfortunately, the current wooden dam that was built there in the 1970’s is deteriorating.

The lake and grounds are owned by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, which has stated that the dam must be replaced. They have proposed a concrete design, which of course is a significant expense. The town is working with DEC and other state leaders to ensure that the state funds a new dam.

In a partnership that makes sense, the town maintains the grounds. The town has constructed the pavilions. Of course the town benefits from the lake, but so does all of nature which DEC is commissioned to protect. While this is not a county or village issue, I state clearly that I value this lake and endorse replacing the dam to preserve it.

Once every 50 years, the DEC should step up to make sure this natural resource – that it owns – will be preserved for future generations. It’s time for New York State to support our community with this critical investment.