Shelby Center Dam

OAK ORCHARD CREEK· Orleans, New York· Built 1870· Masonry· 6 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Private

Key Takeaway

Shelby Center Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1870 and is 156 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 6 ft (taller than 0.3% in NY)
Dam Length150 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage10 acre-ft
Normal Storage10 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Year Completed1870 (156 years old)
NID IDNY10427

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: No
Last Inspection: March 3, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

William R Keppler

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Shelby Center Dam?

Shelby Center 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 Shelby Center Dam?

Shelby Center Dam is owned by William R Keppler (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Shelby Center Dam built?

Shelby Center Dam was completed in 1870, making it 156 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 Shelby Center Dam?

Shelby Center 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 Shelby Center Dam?

Shelby Center Dam has a dam height of 6 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 Shelby Center Dam last inspected?

Shelby Center Dam was last inspected on March 3, 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.