Indian Falls Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Indian Falls Lake Dam, located in Genesee, New York, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1956.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 150 feet, creating a storage capacity of 248 acre-feet and a surface area of 32 acres. Situated on the TR-Tonawanda Creek, the dam serves multiple purposes including recreation and water resource management.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Indian Falls Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 28 feet. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is important to note that regular inspections and risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Indian Falls Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam that contributes to both recreational activities and water storage in the region. The dam's location on the TR-Tonawanda Creek, its controlled spillway, and its moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of effective management and maintenance practices for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of structures like Indian Falls Lake Dam is crucial for adapting to evolving environmental conditions and safeguarding water supplies for future generations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

150

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-TONAWANDA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

248

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.