Springville Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Springville Dam, located in Gowanda Village, New York, is a key water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1922, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 338 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1,170 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Cattaraugus Creek, has a spillway width of 182 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 23,192 cubic feet per second, making it crucial for flood control in the area.

Despite its fair condition assessment, the Springville Dam has a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections and a moderate risk rating. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulates and inspects the dam to ensure its safety and operational efficiency. With a history of modifications and maintenance, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management and recreational activities in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change can appreciate the significance of Springville Dam in preserving the ecological balance and water security in Erie County, New York.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

338

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

CATTARAUGUS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

280

Nid Storage

1170

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.