Lake Meade
Key Takeaway
Lake Meade is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 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 | 42 ft (taller than 78.8% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 1,625 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 211 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00331 |
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
LAKE MEADE POA INC.
Private
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Meade?
Lake Meade 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 Meade?
Lake Meade is owned by LAKE MEADE POA INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Meade built?
Lake Meade was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Meade?
Lake Meade 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 Lake Meade?
Lake Meade has a dam height of 42 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 Meade last inspected?
Lake Meade was last inspected on March 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.