H Tigler Wildlife Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

H Tigler Wildlife Dam, located in Cattaraugus, New York, stands as a vital water resource structure regulated by the NYS DEC.


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Summary

This private dam, completed with a height of 7 feet and a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet, serves a unique purpose in managing the flow of the S Branch Cattaraugus Creek. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam poses a high risk due to its condition being unassessed, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and efficiency.

While the dam's last inspection dates back to 1987, its location within the Buffalo District underscores its significance in the local ecosystem. With a drainage area of 2.35 square miles and a surface area of 10 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water levels for wildlife conservation. Although it lacks a spillway, the H Tigler Wildlife Dam remains a key feature in the region, warranting attention from both state agencies and water resource enthusiasts to safeguard its integrity and functionality.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the H Tigler Wildlife Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable management practices. With its high-risk assessment and lack of condition rating, there is a pressing need for updated inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures to mitigate potential hazards. By recognizing the dam's role in the local ecosystem and implementing proactive conservation efforts, stakeholders can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of this essential water resource infrastructure for future generations.

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

S BRANCH CATTARAUGUS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

2.35

Nid Storage

86

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.