Lower (Pa-487a)
Key Takeaway
Lower (Pa-487a) is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 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 Height | 20 ft (taller than 43.1% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 1,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 850 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 193 acres |
| Drainage Area | 20 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00389 |
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
PA GAME COMMISSION
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Lower (Pa-487a)?
Lower (Pa-487a) 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 Lower (Pa-487a)?
Lower (Pa-487a) is owned by PA GAME COMMISSION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower (Pa-487a) built?
Lower (Pa-487a) was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Lower (Pa-487a)?
Lower (Pa-487a) serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower (Pa-487a)?
Lower (Pa-487a) has a dam height of 20 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 Lower (Pa-487a) last inspected?
Lower (Pa-487a) was last inspected on June 23, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.