Orchard Park Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Orchard Park Reservoir Dam, located in West Falls, New York, is a locally-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1933, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 765 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 139 acre-feet. Situated on the North Branch Pipe Creek, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Orchard Park Reservoir Dam remains a vital asset for the surrounding community. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 64 feet, serving as a crucial overflow mechanism during periods of heavy rainfall. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are yet to be fully assessed, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic design and functional aspects of Orchard Park Reservoir Dam, which not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water flow and storage in the region. As one of the key structures in Erie County, New York, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices and the collaboration between local government agencies and regulatory bodies to ensure the safety and resilience of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
765 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH BRANCH PIPE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
139 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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