Vly Creek Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Vly Creek Reservoir Dam, located in Clarksville, New York, serves as a critical water supply structure in Albany County.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and stretches 338 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 5227 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 240.5 acres and is fed by the TR-ONESQUETHAW CREEK, providing an essential source of water for the surrounding community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the NYS DEC, the dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 100 feet, ensuring proper discharge during heavy rainfall events. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, although its condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to monitor its structural integrity, with the last inspection taking place in September 2020.

Despite its high risk assessment, Vly Creek Reservoir Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the region, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness measures. With its strategic location and vital contribution to the water supply infrastructure, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard against potential climate-related challenges and ensure the resilience of the local water system.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

338

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-ONESQUETHAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

240.5

Drainage Area

2.67

Nid Storage

5227

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.