Heritage Reservation

LITTLE SANDY CREEK· Fayette, Pennsylvania· Built 1979· Earth· 66 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Heritage Reservation is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1979 and is 47 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 66 ft (taller than 90.5% in PA)
Dam Length770 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage8.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage3.1K acre-ft
Surface Area252 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Year Completed1979 (47 years old)
NID IDPA01142

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 14, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

LAUREL HIGHLANDS COUNCIL, BSA

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Heritage Reservation?

Heritage Reservation 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 Heritage Reservation?

Heritage Reservation is owned by LAUREL HIGHLANDS COUNCIL, BSA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Heritage Reservation built?

Heritage Reservation was completed in 1979, making it 47 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 Heritage Reservation?

Heritage Reservation 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 Heritage Reservation?

Heritage Reservation has a dam height of 66 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 Heritage Reservation last inspected?

Heritage Reservation was last inspected on October 14, 2020. 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.