30 Foot Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Ithaca, New York, the 30 Foot Dam, also known as Sixmile Creek Dam, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity with its arch design.


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Summary

Completed in 1903, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene backdrop for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spanning 86 feet in length and standing at a height of 36 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 397 acre-feet, providing essential water management for the surrounding area.

Despite its historical significance and recreational appeal, the 30 Foot Dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of January 2019. The dam's last inspection in November 2018 revealed a need for improvement and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the 30 Foot Dam serves as a critical focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its location in the Sixmile Creek watershed and its historical significance, the dam represents a delicate balance between human recreation and environmental conservation. As stakeholders work towards improving the dam's condition and risk management, it stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

86

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

SIXMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

47

Nid Storage

397

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.