Lost Creek

LOST CREEK· Somerset, Pennsylvania· Built 1954· Earth· 18 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lost Creek is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 18 ft (taller than 37.7% in PA)
Dam Length315 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage270 acre-ft
Normal Storage77 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Year Completed1954 (72 years old)
NID IDPA00739

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 13, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

YMCA OF GREATER PITTSBURGH

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lost Creek?

Lost Creek is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lost Creek?

Lost Creek is owned by YMCA OF GREATER PITTSBURGH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lost Creek built?

Lost Creek was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Lost Creek?

Lost Creek 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 Lost Creek?

Lost Creek has a dam height of 18 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 Lost Creek last inspected?

Lost Creek was last inspected on April 13, 2018. 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.