U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam

TR-ORCHID CREEK· Genesee, New York· Built 1927· Earth· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 56.3% in NY)
Dam Length4,400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage247 acre-ft
Normal Storage176 acre-ft
Surface Area45 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge192 cfs
Year Completed1927 (99 years old)
NID IDNY00476

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: July 26, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

UNITED STATES GYPSUM COMPANY

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam?

U S Gypsum 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 U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam?

U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam is owned by UNITED STATES GYPSUM COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam built?

U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam?

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

How tall is U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam?

U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 20 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 U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam last inspected?

U S Gypsum Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 26, 2016. 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.