Dashields Locks and Dam

OHIO RIVER· Allegheny, Pennsylvania· Built 1929· Gravity·
Significant Hazard Navigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Dashields Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1929 and is 97 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,799 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage17.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage17.0K acre-ft
Surface Area1,210 acres
Drainage Area19,522 sq mi
Max Discharge235,000 cfs
Year Completed1929 (97 years old)
NID IDPA00127

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: November 3, 2021
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Pittsburgh District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Dashields Locks and Dam?

Dashields Locks and 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 Dashields Locks and Dam?

Dashields Locks and Dam is owned by USACE - Pittsburgh District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Dashields Locks and Dam built?

Dashields Locks and Dam was completed in 1929, making it 97 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 Dashields Locks and Dam?

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

When was Dashields Locks and Dam last inspected?

Dashields Locks and Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2021. 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.