Ilion Reservoir #1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ilion Reservoir #1 Dam, located in Ilion, New York, is a vital structure owned by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1895, this Earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 270 feet, providing a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. Situated on the Steele Creek river, this dam serves the community with a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres in Herkimer County.

Maintained by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2008. With a moderate risk level and a biennial inspection frequency, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 5 feet. Despite its age, the Ilion Reservoir #1 Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management for the region, showcasing the resilience and longevity of this essential infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource experts monitor the impacts of climate change on water infrastructure, the Ilion Reservoir #1 Dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of well-maintained structures in ensuring water supply resilience. With its historical significance and continued functionality, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of climate resilience and sustainable water management practices in the region. As efforts continue to enhance the dam's safety and efficiency, it remains a key asset in safeguarding water resources for the community and adapting to the evolving challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-STEELE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

63

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.