Jennings Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Jennings Pond Dam, located in Danby, New York, is a state-owned structure that plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1986, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a length of 565 feet, providing recreational opportunities for visitors in the area. With a storage capacity of 294 acre-feet and a surface area of 32 acres, the dam is situated on Buttermilk Creek and is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 20 feet, is classified as uncontrolled, and the structure is inspected every two years to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being assessed as having a fair condition, the dam is designated as having a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. In case of emergencies, the dam has an emergency action plan in place, although its last revision was in 2018. Overall, Jennings Pond Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for both water management and recreational purposes in Tompkins County, New York.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Jennings Pond Dam become increasingly critical. With a moderate risk assessment rating, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of the dam. By staying proactive in monitoring and addressing any issues that may arise, Jennings Pond Dam can continue to fulfill its role in providing water storage, flood control, and recreational opportunities for the community while adapting to the changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
565 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
BUTTERMILK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Drainage Area |
1.05 |
Nid Storage |
294 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sixmile Creek At Bethel Grove
|
16cfs |
Sixmile Creek At Brooktondale Ny
|
83cfs |
Fall Creek Near Ithaca Ny
|
46cfs |
Susquehanna River At Owego Ny
|
3240cfs |
Chemung River At Elmira Ny
|
381cfs |
Tioughnioga River At Cortland Ny
|
360cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Robert H. Treman State Park
|
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Buttermilk Falls State Park
|
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Kimmie Bivouac
|
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Park Station Rec Area
|
Jennings Pond Dam
Sweedler Preserve
Six Mile Creek Natural Area
Robert H Treman State Park
Tutelo Park
Titus Flats Park