Earl Mitchelson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Earl Mitchelson Dam, located in Oswego, New York, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose categorized as "Other." Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and spans a length of 350 feet, with a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet.


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Summary

Situated on the TR-RICE CREEK, the dam serves as a crucial component of water resource management in the area, regulating the flow of water and providing flood protection to the surrounding region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Earl Mitchelson Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The spillway, with a width of 86 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during peak flow events. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is deemed to have adequate risk management measures in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by Earl Mitchelson Dam's role in shaping the hydrology of the area and its contribution to flood control and water supply management. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its effective risk management strategies, highlights the importance of infrastructure in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TR-RICE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

57

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.