Efner Davis Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Efner Davis Pond Dam, located in Delevan, New York, is a privately owned dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 200 feet, with a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet. Situated on the Limelake Outlet, the dam has a spillway width of 22 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 106 cubic feet per second.

Despite being privately owned, the Efner Davis Pond Dam falls under state regulation and jurisdiction, with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation overseeing permitting, inspections, and enforcement. The dam poses a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The last inspection was conducted in July 2019, with an inspection frequency of 4 years, although the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated".

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the infrastructure of dams, especially in relation to recreation and environmental impact, may find Efner Davis Pond Dam to be a fascinating case study. Its location in Cattaraugus County, New York, along with its design features and regulatory oversight, offer valuable insights into the management of water resources and flood control within the region. The dam's risk level and hazard potential also highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

LIMELAKE OUTLET

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

129

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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.