Lower Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Lower Reservoir Dam in Oneonta, New York, is a key water supply structure owned by the local government and regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.


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Summary

Situated on the Oneonta Creek, this earth dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.5 acres. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, providing essential resources to the community.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the Lower Reservoir Dam is rated in fair condition as of the last assessment in April 2016. Inspected every four years, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in January 2021, ensuring that risk management measures are in place to address any potential emergencies. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management while being mindful of climate-related challenges.

Overall, the Lower Reservoir Dam stands as a vital infrastructure piece in Otsego County, New York, contributing to water supply needs and supporting the local community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, it remains a focal point for sustainable water management practices in the region.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

ONEONTA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.