Otis Young Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Otis Young Dam, also known as Otis Young Rec Pond, is a private dam located in East Homer, New York.


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Summary

Completed in 1974 with a height of 14 feet and a length of 1150 feet, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 10 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-E Branch Tioughnioga River, the dam is state regulated by the NYS DEC, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement processes in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Otis Young Dam poses a manageable level of risk. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 35 cubic feet per second. While its condition is currently unrated, the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, and its last inspection dates back to May 1997. Despite its age, Otis Young Dam remains a vital recreational resource in the Cortland County area, providing both locals and visitors with opportunities for water-based activities and enjoyment.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-E BRANCH TIOUGHNIOGA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

75

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.