Hickory Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Hickory Lake Dam, located in Duells Corner, Erie County, New York, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1990 primarily for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
It spans a length of 850 feet and has a height of 9 feet, with a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. The dam sits on the SOUTH BRANCH SMOKE CREEK and is regulated by the NYS DEC, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
With a spillway width of 28 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 730 cubic feet per second, the dam's hazard potential is considered significant, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it undergoes inspections every four years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam also serves recreational purposes, featuring a surface area of 5 acres for activities such as fishing and boating, making it a valuable asset for the local community.
Overall, Hickory Lake Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area while providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Its location, design, and management highlight the importance of sustainable water resource and climate management practices in ensuring the safety and well-being of surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH BRANCH SMOKE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hickory Lake Dam