Nys Atomic Development Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Nys Atomic Development Dam #1, located in West Valley, New York, stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management.
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Summary
Constructed in 1963 with a height of 95 feet and a length of 450 feet, this earth dam serves primarily as a water supply structure along the TR-BUTTERMILK CREEK. With a maximum storage capacity of 488 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 468 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding area.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Nys Atomic Development Dam #1 has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam has undergone inspections as recently as October 2015, demonstrating a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. With an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 220 feet, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 1900 cubic feet per second, providing an additional layer of protection for downstream areas in the event of heavy rainfall or flooding.
Overall, Nys Atomic Development Dam #1 serves as a critical infrastructure asset in the region, offering essential water supply services while maintaining a focus on safety and risk management. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like this dam in ensuring water security for communities cannot be overstated. With ongoing state regulation and inspection, this dam stands as a vital component of New York's water resource management strategy, ensuring the continued availability of clean water for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
95 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUTTERMILK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Nid Storage |
488 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
95 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cattaraugus Creek At Gowanda Ny
|
490cfs |
Allegheny River At Salamanca Ny
|
1540cfs |
Cazenovia Creek At Ebenezer Ny
|
102cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Gardenville Ny
|
417cfs |
Cayuga Creek Nr Lancaster Ny
|
27cfs |
Genesee River At Portageville Ny
|
542cfs |
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.
Nys Atomic Development Dam #1