Cuba Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cuba Lake Dam, located in Allegany, New York, along Oil Creek, is a significant structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1872 and standing at a height of 55 feet, this earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 16,498 acre-feet and a surface area of 465 acres. The dam is owned by both private and state entities and is regulated by the NYS DEC, with regular inspections and enforcement ensuring its safety and compliance.
With a spillway type of controlled and a hazard potential rated as high, the Cuba Lake Dam poses a risk that is actively managed to maintain its fair condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital component of water resource management in the area. The dam's historical significance and hydraulic features make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study, especially considering its very high risk assessment ranking.
Year Completed |
1872 |
Dam Length |
1750 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
OIL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
465 |
Drainage Area |
25.3 |
Nid Storage |
16498 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Genesee River At Wellsville Ny
|
136cfs |
Oswayo Creek At Shinglehouse
|
60cfs |
Allegheny River At Eldred
|
473cfs |
Allegheny River At Salamanca Ny
|
1540cfs |
Genesee River At Portageville Ny
|
542cfs |
Allegheny River At Port Allegany
|
234cfs |
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.
Cuba Lake Dam