Lake Altoona
Key Takeaway
Lake Altoona is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 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 | 65 ft (taller than 90% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 1,934 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 82 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00532 |
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 Run
Blair, PA
Low Hazard 40 ftWilliam L. Cochran Impounding
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High Hazard 60 ftUpper Kittanning
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High Hazard 45 ftAllegheny Storage
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High Hazard 31 ftMill Run
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High Hazard 100 ftLakemont Park
Blair, PA
High Hazard 12 ftPlane Nine
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High Hazard 51 ftBlair Gap
Blair, PA
High Hazard 47 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Altoona?
Lake Altoona 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 Lake Altoona?
Lake Altoona is owned by ALTOONA WATER AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Altoona built?
Lake Altoona was completed in 1913, making it 113 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 Lake Altoona?
Lake Altoona 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 Lake Altoona?
Lake Altoona has a dam height of 65 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 Lake Altoona last inspected?
Lake Altoona was last inspected on May 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.