Virgin Run

VIRGIN RUN· Fayette, Pennsylvania· Built 1953· Earth· 34 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Virgin Run is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 34 ft (taller than 70.6% in PA)
Dam Length478 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage690 acre-ft
Normal Storage420 acre-ft
Surface Area32 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Year Completed1953 (73 years old)
NID IDPA00196

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: November 17, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

PA FISH & BOAT COMMISSION

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Virgin Run?

Virgin Run 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 Virgin Run?

Virgin Run is owned by PA FISH & BOAT COMMISSION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Virgin Run built?

Virgin Run was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Virgin Run?

Virgin Run 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 Virgin Run?

Virgin Run has a dam height of 34 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 Virgin Run last inspected?

Virgin Run was last inspected on November 17, 2017. 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.