State University College At Oswego Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

State University College At Oswego Dam, located in Fruit Valley, New York, along Rice Creek, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of "Other." Built in 1963, this Earth-type dam stands at 8 feet tall and spans 350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet.


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Summary

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as "Poor," indicating a need for maintenance and repair.

The dam's spillway type is "Uncontrolled" with a width of 75 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 586 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area covers 29 acres with a drainage area of 16.4 square miles. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3 out of 5, there is a need for risk management measures to be put in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.

State University College At Oswego Dam is overseen by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With its historical significance and importance for water resource management in the region, efforts to improve its condition and reduce risks associated with its operation are crucial for the safety and protection of the surrounding community and environment.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

RICE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Drainage Area

16.4

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.