Kinzua Dam
Key Takeaway
Kinzua Dam is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length | 1,916 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 1.3M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 573.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12,080 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,180 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 144,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00105 |
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
USACE - Pittsburgh District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kinzua Dam?
Kinzua Dam 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 Kinzua Dam?
Kinzua Dam is owned by USACE - Pittsburgh District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kinzua Dam built?
Kinzua Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Kinzua Dam?
Kinzua Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Kinzua Dam last inspected?
Kinzua Dam was last inspected on June 15, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.