Cody Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cody Pond Dam, located in Oswego, New York, is a privately owned structure primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and recreation.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 14 feet and a length of 120 feet, impounds the TR-W Branch Little River, providing a storage capacity of 194 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, 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), Cody Pond Dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement actions. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 6 feet, ensuring the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow. While the structure's condition is currently not rated, it meets all necessary guidelines and regulations for continued operation.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find Cody Pond Dam an intriguing example of a small-scale hydroelectric facility with a dual purpose of power generation and recreational use. Its location along the TR-W Branch Little River offers a peaceful setting for outdoor activities, while its regulated status ensures that it operates safely and effectively within the surrounding environment. Despite its unassuming size, the dam plays a significant role in the local water management infrastructure and contributes to the sustainable development of the region.

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-W BRANCH LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Nid Storage

194

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.