Furnace Run
Key Takeaway
Furnace Run is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 19 ft (taller than 41.1% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 36 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 28 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| NID ID | PA01461 |
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
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY OF WESTMORELAND COUNTY
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Furnace Run?
Furnace Run 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 Furnace Run?
Furnace Run is owned by MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY OF WESTMORELAND COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Furnace Run built?
Furnace Run was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Furnace Run?
Furnace Run serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Furnace Run?
Furnace Run has a dam height of 19 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 Furnace Run last inspected?
Furnace Run was last inspected on November 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.