Lower Reservoir Dam

TR-ONEIDA CREEK· Madison, New York· Built 1882· Earth· 31 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lower Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1882 and is 144 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 31 ft (taller than 80.7% in NY)
Dam Length190 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage70 acre-ft
Normal Storage24 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1882 (144 years old)
NID IDNY01230

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 24, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

CITY OF ONEIDA

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lower Reservoir Dam?

Lower Reservoir Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lower Reservoir Dam?

Lower Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF ONEIDA (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lower Reservoir Dam built?

Lower Reservoir Dam was completed in 1882, making it 144 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Lower Reservoir Dam?

Lower Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Lower Reservoir Dam?

Lower Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 31 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Lower Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Lower Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.