Cowanesque Dam
Key Takeaway
Cowanesque Dam is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 151 ft (taller than 98.3% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 3,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 84.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 29.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,050 acres |
| Drainage Area | 298 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 224,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | PA01134 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Baltimore District
Federal Government
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High Hazard 17 ftCorning Community College Dam
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Significant Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cowanesque Dam?
Cowanesque Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cowanesque Dam?
Cowanesque Dam is owned by USACE - Baltimore District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cowanesque Dam built?
Cowanesque Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 Cowanesque Dam?
Cowanesque Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cowanesque Dam?
Cowanesque Dam has a dam height of 151 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 Cowanesque Dam last inspected?
Cowanesque Dam was last inspected on June 6, 2024. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.