Wilsonville
Key Takeaway
Wilsonville is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 68 ft (taller than 91.1% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 1,275 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 270.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 132.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5,700 acres |
| Drainage Area | 228 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 56,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00302 |
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
BIF III Holtwood LLC
Public Utility
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What is the hazard classification of Wilsonville?
Wilsonville 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 Wilsonville?
Wilsonville is owned by BIF III Holtwood LLC (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wilsonville built?
Wilsonville was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Wilsonville?
Wilsonville serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wilsonville?
Wilsonville has a dam height of 68 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 Wilsonville last inspected?
Wilsonville was last inspected on June 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.