Cowans Gap
Key Takeaway
Cowans Gap is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 32 ft (taller than 67.5% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 500 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 54 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00187 |
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
DCNR
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cowans Gap?
Cowans Gap 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 Cowans Gap?
Cowans Gap is owned by DCNR (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cowans Gap built?
Cowans Gap was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Cowans Gap?
Cowans Gap serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cowans Gap?
Cowans Gap has a dam height of 32 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 Cowans Gap last inspected?
Cowans Gap was last inspected on June 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.