Ralph De Pew Wildlife Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
The Ralph De Pew Wildlife Pond Dam in Smith Valley, New York, is a privately owned structure completed in 1955 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Situated along the TR-TAUGHANNOCK CREEK, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 258 feet, creating a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. With a surface area of 17 acres and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, the dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
Managed by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), the Ralph De Pew Wildlife Pond Dam provides opportunities for outdoor recreation in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 90 feet, ensuring safe discharge during high water events. While the dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," regular state inspections and enforcement measures are in place to ensure its safety and functionality. The surrounding community can enjoy activities such as fishing, bird-watching, and hiking in the scenic surroundings of this wildlife pond.
Located in Schuyler County, this dam serves as a vital resource for water conservation and wildlife habitat preservation. With its strategic position within the watershed, the Ralph De Pew Wildlife Pond Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and supporting local ecosystems. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of sustainable dam management and environmental conservation becomes increasingly significant. By prioritizing proper maintenance and regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the efforts to balance human recreation needs with the preservation of natural habitats and water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
258 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TAUGHANNOCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fall Creek Near Ithaca Ny
|
147cfs |
Sixmile Creek At Bethel Grove
|
38cfs |
Sixmile Creek At Brooktondale Ny
|
83cfs |
Chemung River At Elmira Ny
|
1050cfs |
Keuka Lake Outlet At Dresden Ny
|
102cfs |
Chemung River At Corning Ny
|
142cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Carley Hill Tent Sites
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Havana Glen
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Clute Memorial Park
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Montour Marina
|
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Blueberry Patch
|
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Blueberry Patch Campground
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Ralph De Pew Wildlife Pond Dam