Mcdonaldton

TR BUFFALO CREEK· Somerset, Pennsylvania· Built 1911· Earth· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Mcdonaldton is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 32.5% in PA)
Dam Length419 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage49 acre-ft
Normal Storage49 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1911 (115 years old)
NID IDPA01331

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: No
Last Inspection: April 13, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

BERLIN SPORTSMAN ASSOCIATION

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mcdonaldton?

Mcdonaldton 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 Mcdonaldton?

Mcdonaldton is owned by BERLIN SPORTSMAN ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mcdonaldton built?

Mcdonaldton was completed in 1911, making it 115 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 Mcdonaldton?

Mcdonaldton 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 Mcdonaldton?

Mcdonaldton has a dam height of 16 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 Mcdonaldton last inspected?

Mcdonaldton 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.