Iroquois National Refuge Dam Site #7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Iroquois National Refuge Dam Site #7, also known as Iroquois Refuge Marsh, is a federal-owned structure located in Orleans, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 1200 feet in length, providing storage capacity of 305 acre-feet for the TR-OAK ORCHARD CREEK. With a normal storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a surface area of 84 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam at Iroquois National Refuge is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam has not been inspected since 1977, but it is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. With uncontrolled spillways and a maximum discharge of 236 cubic feet per second, the dam serves multiple purposes and is essential for maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Iroquois National Refuge Dam Site #7 to be a fascinating structure, not only for its functional aspects but also for its environmental significance. With its strategic location and design, this dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region and serves as a vital component in the conservation of the Iroquois National Refuge ecosystem.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-OAK ORCHARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

305

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.