Perch River Wildlife Refuge Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
Perch River Wildlife Refuge Dam, located in Perch River, New York, is a state-owned structure regulated by the NYS DEC.
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Summary
Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 1800 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3300 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is categorized as "Other," serving as a vital component for managing water resources in the area.
With a drainage area of 80.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 11,500 cubic feet per second, the Perch River Wildlife Refuge Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management for the region. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, prompting the need for regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.
Managed by the Buffalo District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam serves as a key infrastructure for wildlife conservation and habitat preservation in the region. With its moderate risk assessment level, stakeholders and enthusiasts in water resource management and climate conservation can appreciate the significance of the Perch River Wildlife Refuge Dam in maintaining ecological balance and sustainable water utilization practices.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1800 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
PERCH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
545 |
Drainage Area |
80.6 |
Nid Storage |
3300 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River At Watertown Ny
|
2330cfs |
Sandy Creek Near Adams Ny
|
212cfs |
Beaver River At Croghan Ny
|
695cfs |
West Branch Oswegatchie R Nr Harrisville Ny
|
322cfs |
Salmon River At Pineville Ny
|
488cfs |
Independence River At Donnattsburg Ny
|
214cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Perch River Wildlife Refuge Dam
Conservation Department Road Jefferson County