Griffin
Key Takeaway
Griffin is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1888 and is 138 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 | 40 ft (taller than 77.2% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 340 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 110 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1888 (138 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00188 |
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
PA AMERICAN WATER COMPANY
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Griffin?
Griffin 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 Griffin?
Griffin is owned by PA AMERICAN WATER COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Griffin built?
Griffin was completed in 1888, making it 138 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 Griffin?
Griffin 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 Griffin?
Griffin has a dam height of 40 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 Griffin last inspected?
Griffin was last inspected on April 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.