Flattail Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Cheektowaga, New York, Flattail Lake Dam is a state-owned structure with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1940, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 14 feet and spans 500 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Flattail Lake Dam is considered to have a high risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 2. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is under the regulatory oversight of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC). The last inspection of the dam took place in May 2013, and it is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols to ensure its safety and functionality.

With its strategic location on the TR-SLATE-BOTTOM CREEK, Flattail Lake Dam serves as a vital component in maintaining the ecological balance of the area and providing habitat for fish and wildlife. As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam offers insights into the intersection of infrastructure management, environmental conservation, and regulatory compliance in the state of New York.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-SLATE-BOTTOM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

54

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.