Oak Orchard Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Oak Orchard Creek Dam, also known as Waterport Hydro, is a private dam located in Waterport Station, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1917, this concrete structure stands at a height of 90 feet and spans 760 feet in length. Its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a storage capacity of 10,050 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6,300 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Oak Orchard Creek Dam is a key player in the region's water resource management. With a drainage area of 216 square miles and a surface area of 335 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing flood control. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place.

Water and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Oak Orchard Creek Dam in sustaining the ecological balance of the area. Its role in hydroelectric power generation and water management highlights the importance of responsible dam operation and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. As a critical infrastructure in the region, the dam's continued operation underscores the need for sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

OAK ORCHARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

335

Drainage Area

216

Nid Storage

10050

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

90
       
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.