Hornell Reservoir #3 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hornell Reservoir #3 Dam, located in Hornell, New York, serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1931, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 71 feet and spans 400 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 604 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 444 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 20 acres and drains an area of 12.5 square miles.
Managed and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' for its condition assessment. The spillway, categorized as 'Uncontrolled', has a width of 127 feet. Despite a moderate risk level assessment, the dam has not been inspected since May 2008. The dam's primary purpose of water supply underscores its importance in sustaining the local community's water needs.
With its strategic location on Seely Creek and under the jurisdiction of the Buffalo District, Hornell Reservoir #3 Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, ensuring the safety and efficiency of such critical infrastructure remains a top priority for local government authorities and environmental agencies.
Year Completed |
1931 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
71 |
River Or Stream |
SEELY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
12.5 |
Nid Storage |
604 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
71 |
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.
Hornell Reservoir #3 Dam