Waverly Lower Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
The Waverly Lower Reservoir Dam, located in Waverly, New York, is a vital structure owned by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1880, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and spans 310 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 360 acre-feet. Situated on Dry Brook, the dam's primary purpose is to provide water for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 18 acres.
Despite its historical significance, the Waverly Lower Reservoir Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The dam's last inspection in August 2020 revealed the need for improvement, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. With a moderate risk level assigned, there is a need for risk management measures to be implemented to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam in the face of potential climate-related challenges such as increased precipitation and extreme weather events.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Waverly Lower Reservoir Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role dams play in water supply and management. With its location in Tioga, New York, and oversight by the NYS DEC, the dam's importance extends beyond its local community. As efforts are made to address its maintenance needs and enhance its resilience, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in infrastructure management.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
310 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
DRY BROOK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Susquehanna River Near Waverly Ny
|
3940cfs |
Chemung River At Chemung Ny
|
496cfs |
Wappasening Creek Near Windham Center
|
10cfs |
Chemung River At Elmira Ny
|
444cfs |
Susquehanna River At Owego Ny
|
3480cfs |
Susquehanna River At Towanda
|
4800cfs |
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.
Waverly Lower Reservoir Dam