Hornell Reservoir #1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hornell Reservoir #1 Dam, located in Hornell, New York, was completed in 1936 and serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 48 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 566 acre-feet. The reservoir, situated on Seely Creek, covers a surface area of 25 acres and has a drainage area of 14 square miles.
Managed by the Local Government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), the dam has been classified with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The spillway, categorized as uncontrolled, is 173 feet wide, ensuring the safe release of excess water during high flow events. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and inspection to ensure the safety and reliability of this vital water infrastructure.
With its historical significance and essential role in water supply management, Hornell Reservoir #1 Dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of maintaining and safeguarding our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to recognize the critical role that infrastructure like this plays in sustaining our communities and ecosystems, underscoring the need for proactive management and investment in our water systems for a more resilient future.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
SEELY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
566 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
48 |
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 #1 Dam