Fairmount
Key Takeaway
Fairmount is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 67.5% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 1,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 427 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,916 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00897 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
PHILADELPHIA WATER DEPARTMENT
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Fairmount?
Fairmount 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 Fairmount?
Fairmount is owned by PHILADELPHIA WATER DEPARTMENT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fairmount built?
Fairmount was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Fairmount?
Fairmount serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Fairmount?
Fairmount 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 Fairmount last inspected?
Fairmount was last inspected on March 14, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.