Speery & Stramba Wildlife Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Speery & Stramba Wildlife Dam, located in Texas Valley, New York, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1956, this earth dam has a height of 14 feet and a length of 380 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for wildlife conservation and recreational purposes, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment.

Managed by private owners and regulated by the NYS DEC, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels of the TR-MERRILL CREEK, covering a surface area of 31 acres and serving a drainage area of 0.05 square miles. The spillway, with a width of 45 feet, is uncontrolled, further enhancing the natural ecosystem of the area. Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to provide valuable water resources in a sustainable manner.

With its scenic location in Cortland County, the Speery & Stramba Wildlife Dam represents a harmonious blend of water resource management and wildlife conservation efforts. Although not actively maintained by federal agencies, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of local stewardship in preserving our natural environment. As climate enthusiasts, we can appreciate the role of such structures in mitigating the impacts of changing weather patterns and ensuring the sustainability of our ecosystems for future generations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-MERRILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

82

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.