Sidney Reservoir #5 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sidney Reservoir #5 Dam, also known as Sidney Upper Reservoir Dam, stands as a vital infrastructure in the picturesque city of Sidney, New York.


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Summary

Constructed in 1936, this earth dam towers at a height of 77 feet and spans a length of 225 feet, serving primarily as a crucial water supply source for the community. With a storage capacity of 163 acre-feet, this dam plays a pivotal role in ensuring water security for the region, drawing water from the Collar Brook.

Despite its historical significance and functional importance, Sidney Reservoir #5 Dam is facing challenges in terms of its structural integrity. A recent condition assessment rated it as poor, with a hazard potential deemed significant. In light of these concerns, regular inspections are carried out, with the last inspection conducted in January 2021. The dam's emergency action plan is in need of updates, and risk management measures are being evaluated to mitigate potential risks.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the preservation and maintenance of Sidney Reservoir #5 Dam should be a top priority. With its critical role in water supply and the surrounding ecosystem, efforts to address its condition assessment, hazard potential, and risk management are essential. By ensuring the safety and longevity of this vital infrastructure, we can safeguard water resources and the community's well-being for generations to come.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

77

River Or Stream

COLLAR BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

163

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

77
       
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.