Pike Dam Removal and Grade Control Stabilization Feasibility Study
Preserving Infrastructure and Fish Habitats Along Wiscoy Creek
The Pike Dam is located on Wiscoy Creek in the Town of Pike, New York. Regulated under New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) regulations, the condition of the dam has deteriorated. Its failure threatens streambank stabilization, downstream infrastructure, and fish habitats, as Wiscoy Creek is considered one of the premier wild brown trout streams in Western New York.
LaBella was retained under a joint committee consisting of the Town of Pike, the Wyoming County Soil & Water Conservation District, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and NYSDEC, to progress a feasibility study for removal of the existing dam structure, eliminating the need for future maintenance and periodic inspections/assessments.
Investigation & Assessment
LaBella performed a detailed inspection of the existing dam, determining that it required removal. Two grade stabilization alternatives for after the planned removal included an engineered rock riffle structure and a series of rock cross vanes. A hydraulic analysis was performed to ensure that neither alternative would cause an increase in the 100-year water surface elevation at the site. Following coordination with the joint committee, the rock riffle was chosen as the preferred alternative.
Conceptual Report
Findings were summarized in a conceptual report, including conceptual design plans for the engineered riffle structure. Rock riffles consist of strategically placed large riprap that serve to reduce upstream slope and velocity. The riffle at this site would extend throughout approximately 40 feet of the newly graded low flow channel. The riprap would be placed at a constant slope, eliminating the existing vertical drop.
Following significant coordination with various state and federal regulators, the project was approved with limited comments.
