Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is grade stabilization. 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 | 23 ft (taller than 51% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 280 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 55 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 19 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | PA01359 |
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
SONNEBORN, LLC
Private
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir?
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir 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 Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir?
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir is owned by SONNEBORN, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir built?
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir?
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir serves the following purposes: Grade Stabilization. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir?
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir has a dam height of 23 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 Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir last inspected?
Sonneborn (Witco) Reservoir was last inspected on September 16, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.