Otter Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Otter Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1916 and is 110 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 37 ft (taller than 86.3% in NY) |
| Dam Length | 310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 72 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1916 (110 years old) |
| NID ID | NY00706 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
MICHAEL AND JOYCE WRIGHT
Private
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Low Hazard 11 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Otter Creek Dam?
Otter Creek 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 Otter Creek Dam?
Otter Creek Dam is owned by MICHAEL AND JOYCE WRIGHT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Otter Creek Dam built?
Otter Creek Dam was completed in 1916, making it 110 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 Otter Creek Dam?
Otter Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Otter Creek Dam?
Otter Creek Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Otter Creek Dam last inspected?
Otter Creek Dam was last inspected on October 13, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.