Shenango Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shenango Dam, also known as Shenango River Lake, is a gravity dam located in Sharpsville, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Shenango River. With a structural height of 68 feet and a hydraulic height of 64 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 351,000 acre-feet and a normal storage of 29,920 acre-feet. It covers a surface area of 3,560 acres and has a spillway width of 300 feet.

Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is equipped with seven vertical lift outlet gates to manage water levels and mitigate flood risks. The US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors the dam's condition and conducts regular maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place to guide response actions and evacuation procedures. The agency also collaborates with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and enhance preparedness for potential dam-related incidents.

Overall, Shenango Dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the region. With ongoing risk management measures and a focus on safety and preparedness, the dam continues to serve as a vital infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts who value sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

720

River Or Stream

SHENANGO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3560

Hydraulic Height

64

Drainage Area

589

Nid Storage

351000

Structural Height

68

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 7

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

68
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.