Van Natta Dam

SIX MILE CREEK· Tompkins, New York· Built 1907· Concrete· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Local Government

Key Takeaway

Van Natta Dam is classified as significant hazard in New York. It was completed in 1907 and is 119 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 23.2% in NY)
Dam Length142 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage9 acre-ft
Normal Storage9 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area49 sq mi
Year Completed1907 (119 years old)
NID IDNY11601

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: July 13, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NYS DEC

Ownership

CITY OF ITHACA

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Van Natta Dam?

Van Natta 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 Van Natta Dam?

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

When was Van Natta Dam built?

Van Natta Dam was completed in 1907, making it 119 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 Van Natta Dam?

Van Natta 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 Van Natta Dam?

Van Natta Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Van Natta Dam last inspected?

Van Natta Dam was last inspected on July 13, 2017. 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.