Marion Teachout Wildlife Marsh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Marion Teachout Wildlife Marsh Dam, located in Sterling Valley, New York, is a privately owned structure regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.


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Summary

Built in 1958, this Earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans 115 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. The dam serves a primary purpose categorized as "Other" and is designed to control the flow of TR-STERLING VALLEY CREEK.

Although the dam has a low hazard potential, it is considered to have a moderate risk level, with the last inspection conducted in August 2009. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 218 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 0.16 square miles and a surface area of 19 acres, Marion Teachout Wildlife Marsh Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Marion Teachout Wildlife Marsh Dam presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure management. Its location in Cayuga County, New York, and its association with the Buffalo District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers highlight the intersection of state and federal oversight in safeguarding water resources. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory compliance, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of balancing conservation efforts with water management strategies in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

115

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR-STERLING VALLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
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.