Gill Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Located in Niagara Falls, New York, the Gill Creek Dam, also known as Hyde Park Lake, is a private concrete dam completed in 1927 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 12 feet and a length of 180 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet and a surface area of 32 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its safety.

The dam, situated on Gill Creek, does not have a spillway but is equipped with a spillway width of 180 feet. The risk assessment for Gill Creek Dam is rated as high (2), prompting the need for effective risk management measures to address any potential issues that may arise. Although the last inspection date is listed as December 31, 1901, the state regulatory agency and owner are responsible for ensuring the dam's integrity and emergency preparedness in case of any unforeseen events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gill Creek Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and state regulation. As a recreational structure nestled in a picturesque setting, the dam's historical significance and risk profile underscore the importance of proactive management and maintenance to safeguard both the community and the environment. With its unique features and regulatory oversight, Gill Creek Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

GILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

14.7

Nid Storage

143

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.