Upper Earlville Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Upper Earlville Reservoir Dam in Earlville, New York, stands as a vital structure managing the flow of the TR-Sangerfield River.


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Summary

Built in 1936, this private-owned Earth-type dam boasts a height of 20 feet and a length of 355 feet, providing a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet. With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement for public safety.

Despite its age, the Upper Earlville Reservoir Dam remains a crucial component of the local water resource infrastructure, offering a maximum discharge capacity of 200 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway, measuring 15 feet wide, serves as an uncontrolled release point during high water events. With a surface area of 3 acres and a drainage area of 1 acre, the dam plays a pivotal role in water management and flood control efforts in the region.

Ensuring the dam's integrity and functionality is a top priority, with a regular inspection frequency of 4 years to assess its condition and prepare for any potential emergencies. With a designated emergency action plan and risk management measures in place, the Upper Earlville Reservoir Dam continues to safeguard the surrounding communities and environment from the impacts of water-related disasters, highlighting the importance of proactive maintenance and oversight in water resource management.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

355

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-SANGERFIELD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

21

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.