Deruyter Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Deruyter Dam, located in the picturesque hamlet of Gooseville in Onondaga, New York, was completed in 1863 and serves as a vital navigation infrastructure along the Limestone Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 68 feet and a length of 1600 feet, this Earth-type dam provides essential water storage of 16,200 acre-feet, making it a significant resource for the region. Despite its historical significance and critical role in navigation and recreation, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 rated it as poor, with a high hazard potential.
The dam, regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, poses a moderate risk level and is subject to regular inspections every two years. With a maximum discharge capacity of 769 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 560 acres, the Deruyter Dam is a key component in managing water resources in the area. However, the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential highlight the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of this important structure for both water resource management and climate resilience.
As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the Deruyter Dam stands as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental stewardship. With its rich history, strategic location, and pivotal role in water storage and regulation, the dam serves as a symbol of the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations. Efforts to address the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential underscore the importance of proactive risk management and sustainable infrastructure practices in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource demands.
Year Completed |
1863 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
LIMESTONE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
560 |
Drainage Area |
5.62 |
Nid Storage |
16200 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
68 |
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.
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