Vly Creek Reservoir Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

The Vly Creek Reservoir Dike, also known as Vly Reservoir, is a key water supply structure located in Albany, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 5,227 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of water supply for the region. The reservoir covers a surface area of 240.5 acres and has a drainage area of 2.67 square miles, making it a vital resource for the local community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Vly Creek Reservoir Dike has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition. However, due to its high hazard potential and risk assessment rating, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and stability. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, although its last revision date was in December 2017.

With a notable location along the Vly Creek and under the jurisdiction of the New York District, the Vly Creek Reservoir Dike plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Its presence not only supports the water supply needs of the community but also highlights the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness for critical infrastructure like dams.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

VLY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

240.5

Drainage Area

2.67

Nid Storage

5227

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.