Oak Orchard Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Oak Orchard Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in New York. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 90 ft (taller than 97.8% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 760 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 10.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 335 acres |
| Drainage Area | 216 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00485 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Oak Orchard Creek Dam?
Oak Orchard Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Oak Orchard Creek Dam?
Oak Orchard Creek Dam is owned by Erie Boulevard Hydropower, LP/Brookfield Renewable (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Oak Orchard Creek Dam built?
Oak Orchard Creek Dam was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Oak Orchard Creek Dam?
Oak Orchard Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Oak Orchard Creek Dam?
Oak Orchard Creek Dam has a dam height of 90 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 Oak Orchard Creek Dam last inspected?
Oak Orchard Creek Dam was last inspected on April 30, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.