Silver Creek Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Silver Creek Reservoir Dam, also known as Silver Creek Upper Reservoir, is a vital water supply structure located in Balltown, Chautauqua, New York.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high and spans 2000 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 713 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 410 acre-feet, it serves the primary purpose of water supply for the local community.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), Silver Creek Reservoir Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet. Its significant hazard potential is closely monitored through regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in October 2019. The dam's risk assessment is rated at a moderate level, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of downstream areas.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of the Silver Creek Reservoir Dam in providing essential water supply services to the region. Its strategic location along the TR-Silver Creek river system, combined with its operational capacity and regulatory oversight, underscores the critical role it plays in sustaining local water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with its operation. As a key infrastructure asset in the Buffalo District, this dam serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource management with environmental conservation and community safety in New York State.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-SILVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Nid Storage

713

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.