Godfreys Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Horseshoe Lake Dam Byron Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Godfreys Pond Dam, located in Byron, New York, is a privately owned concrete dam completed in 1860, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 300 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 171 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Bigelow Creek, within the Buffalo District, and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC).
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition has not been formally assessed. The spillway, with a width of 28 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the last inspection of the dam was conducted in May 2008, details about the inspection frequency and emergency action plan preparedness are currently unavailable. The dam poses a moderate risk, and further monitoring and assessment may be necessary to ensure its continued safety and functionality for recreational purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams, particularly in the context of recreation and environmental conservation, may find Godfreys Pond Dam to be an intriguing case study. The dam's history, design, and regulatory oversight by the NYS DEC offer valuable insights into the complex interplay between human infrastructure, water resources, and environmental protection. As discussions around dam safety and risk management continue to evolve, the ongoing monitoring and assessment of Godfreys Pond Dam serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible stewardship of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1860 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
BIGELOW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
40 |
Drainage Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
171 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tonawanda Creek At Batavia Ny
|
29cfs |
Black Creek At Churchville Ny
|
13cfs |
Tonawanda Creek At Attica Ny
|
30cfs |
Oatka Creek At Garbutt Ny
|
56cfs |
Genesee River At Avon Ny
|
697cfs |
Oatka Creek At Warsaw Ny
|
17cfs |
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.
Godfreys Pond Dam
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