Lanpher

WTRSHD ALLEGHENY RIVER· Allegheny, Pennsylvania· Built 1915· Earth· 38 ft tall
High Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lanpher is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 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 38 ft (taller than 75.2% in PA)
Dam Length3,425 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage470 acre-ft
Normal Storage470 acre-ft
Surface Area16 acres
Year Completed1915 (111 years old)
NID IDPA01980

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: No
Last Inspection: March 5, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lanpher?

Lanpher 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 Lanpher?

Lanpher is owned by PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lanpher built?

Lanpher was completed in 1915, making it 111 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 Lanpher?

Lanpher 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 Lanpher?

Lanpher has a dam height of 38 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 Lanpher last inspected?

Lanpher was last inspected on March 5, 2021. 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.