Youghiogheny Dam

YOUGHIOGHENY RIVER· Fayette, Pennsylvania· Built 1944· Earth·

High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Other Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Hydroelectric Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Youghiogheny Dam is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1944 and is 82 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 Length	1,610 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	300.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage	149.3K acre-ft

Surface Area	2,840 acres
Drainage Area	434 sq mi
Max Discharge	130,500 cfs
Year Completed	1944 (82 years old)
NID ID	PA00109

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: November 3, 2020

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Pittsburgh District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Youghiogheny Dam?

Youghiogheny Dam 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 Youghiogheny Dam?

Youghiogheny Dam is owned by USACE - Pittsburgh District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Youghiogheny Dam built?

Youghiogheny Dam was completed in 1944, making it 82 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 Youghiogheny Dam?

Youghiogheny Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Youghiogheny Dam last inspected?

Youghiogheny Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2020. 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.