Willow Stream Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Willow Stream Dam, located in Clay, Onondaga County, New York, is a vital structure managed by the local government to reduce flood risks along the TR-SENECA RIVER.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 85 feet in length, with a capacity to hold 55 acre-feet of water. Despite its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam is currently rated as having a significant hazard potential and poor structural condition, calling for immediate attention.

With a drainage area of 1.98 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 529 cubic feet per second, Willow Stream Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region. However, its poor condition assessment and moderate risk level highlight the urgent need for maintenance and risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding communities. The dam's inspection frequency of every 4 years indicates ongoing monitoring and evaluation efforts to address any potential safety issues.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of structures like Willow Stream Dam in mitigating flood risks and protecting the environment. By understanding the dam's design, purpose, and current condition, stakeholders can work towards implementing necessary improvements to enhance its performance and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water management challenges.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

85

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-SENECA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.8

Drainage Area

1.98

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.