Empire Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Empire Lake Dam is a privately owned structure located in Tioga, New York, along the Evelin Hill Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1965 for recreational purposes, this Earth-type dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 430 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment.
The dam, managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities. While it does not have a spillway, it has a maximum discharge capacity of 160 cfs and a surface area of 23 acres. Despite being last inspected in 1994, the dam remains in operation and continues to provide recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
Although Empire Lake Dam poses a high risk due to its age and lack of recent assessments, it serves as a vital recreational asset for the community. As efforts to update and maintain the dam are crucial for its long-term sustainability and safety, stakeholders and authorities must collaborate to ensure the continued enjoyment of Empire Lake while prioritizing public safety and environmental protection.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
EVELIN HILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.87 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Empire Lake Dam