Bradford City No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Bradford City No 3 is a key water supply dam located in McKean, Pennsylvania, completed in 1898 and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

With a height of 47 feet and a length of 770 feet, this Earth-type dam holds a storage capacity of 502 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area. Situated on Marilla Brook in Bradford Township, this dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the region.

Despite being assessed as having a high hazard potential, Bradford City No 3 is currently in satisfactory condition and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its integrity. In 2009, it underwent hydraulic modifications to enhance its functionality. The dam's emergency action plan status is not specified, but it is equipped with the necessary infrastructure to manage any potential risks effectively. Governed by local government authorities, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining water resources for climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Bradford City No 3 is crucial in highlighting the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water supply management, this dam serves as a tangible reminder of the interconnectedness between human development and natural resource conservation. As we navigate the challenges of climate change, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of such crucial water infrastructure will be essential for safeguarding our communities and ecosystems for the future.

Years Modified

2009 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1898

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

MARILLA BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

4.8

Nid Storage

502

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

47
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.