Arkport Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Arkport Dam, located in Arkport, New York, was completed in 1940 by the US Army Corps of Engineers to primarily reduce flood risk along the Canisteo River.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 131 feet and with a storage capacity of 11,095 acre-feet, the earth dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks to downstream communities. Despite its risk management measures, such as regular inspections and emergency action plans, the dam still poses a high hazard potential due to the potential for uncontrolled spillway releases during significant storm events.

In the event of a breach or high-volume release, downstream communities like Arkport, Hornell, and Canisteo could face devastating flooding, with the water being swift and deep, potentially overwhelming levees and destroying infrastructure. The US Army Corps of Engineers remains vigilant in maintaining the dam's structural integrity and monitoring water levels, while also collaborating with local emergency managers to keep residents informed and prepared for any potential flood events. While the dam serves as a critical flood control structure, the risk of flooding remains a constant concern for residents in the surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

131

River Or Stream

CANISTEO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

125.2

Drainage Area

30

Nid Storage

11095

Structural Height

131

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

131
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.