Kettle
Key Takeaway
Kettle 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 | 54 ft (taller than 86.6% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 857 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 577 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1888 (138 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00539 |
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
ALTOONA WATER AUTHORITY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Scotch Valley
Blair, PA
Significant Hazard 17 ftLakemont Park
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High Hazard 12 ftCanoe Creek
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High Hazard 31 ftHomer Gap No 2
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High Hazard 29 ftMill Run
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High Hazard 100 ftLake Altoona
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High Hazard 65 ftScotch Run
Blair, PA
Low Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kettle?
Kettle 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 Kettle?
Kettle is owned by ALTOONA WATER AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kettle built?
Kettle 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 Kettle?
Kettle 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 Kettle?
Kettle has a dam height of 54 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 Kettle last inspected?
Kettle was last inspected on September 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.