Panama Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
The Panama Dam, located in Chautauqua, New York, along Little Brokenstraw Creek, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1910, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 206 feet, with a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 31 feet, and has a maximum discharge of 385 cubic feet per second.
Despite its recreational purpose, the Panama Dam has been classified with a high hazard potential, indicating the potential risks associated with its failure. The dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, with regular inspections and enforcement in place to ensure its safety. The risk assessment for the dam is rated as moderate, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to prevent any potential emergencies.
Overall, the Panama Dam serves as an important structure for water resource management and recreation in the region. With its historical significance and critical role in the local ecosystem, it is essential to maintain the dam's integrity through regular inspections and adherence to safety guidelines to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities and environment.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
206 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BROKENSTRAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
4.22 |
Nid Storage |
210 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chadakoin River At Falconer Ny
|
745cfs |
French Creek Near Wattsburg
|
304cfs |
Brokenstraw Creek At Youngsville
|
737cfs |
Conewango Creek At Russell
|
3550cfs |
Allegheny River Bl Conewango Creek At Warren
|
9280cfs |
French Creek Near Union City
|
1130cfs |
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.
Panama Dam