Iroquois #5 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Orleans, New York, the Iroquois #5 Dam is a Federal-owned structure managed by the U.S.


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Summary

Fish and Wildlife Service. Constructed in 1970, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 1100 feet, serving as a vital component for the management of the Oak Orchard Creek. With a primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, the dam provides storage capacity of 3480 acre-feet and supports a drainage area of 139.1 square miles.

The dam, regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, maintains a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2019. Equipped with other controlled outlet gates, the Iroquois #5 Dam has been modified over the years for hydraulic and other enhancements in 1978 and 1983. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and wildlife preservation efforts in the region.

Situated within the Buffalo District, the Iroquois #5 Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of crucial water infrastructure. With its strategic location and purposeful design, the dam stands as a testament to the commitment towards environmental stewardship and sustainable water resource management in New York State.

Years Modified

1978 - Hydraulic, 1978 - Other, 1983 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

OAK ORCHARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

139.1

Nid Storage

3480

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.