Curwensville Dam, also known as Curwensville Lake, is a Federal-owned rockfill dam located on the West Branch Susquehanna River in Clearfield, Pennsylvania. Completed in 1965, the dam stands at 131 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 209,000 acre-feet. While the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, it also serves other functions such as recreation and water supply.

Despite its role in reducing the risk of flooding to downstream communities, Curwensville Dam still poses a high hazard potential due to the possibility of a breach during extreme weather events. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for the maintenance, inspections, and risk management measures for the dam, including regular updates to the Emergency Action Plan and coordination with emergency managers for response exercises. In the event of a breach, downstream communities like Curwensville, Clearfield, and Plymptonville could face swift and deep floodwaters, resulting in significant property damage and potential loss of life.

USACE closely monitors rainfall forecasts to anticipate high water events and provide timely flood warnings to at-risk areas. While the dam plays a crucial role in flood protection, the potential for catastrophic flooding remains, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management and preparedness efforts. The collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies ensures a coordinated response to any emergency situations that may arise, safeguarding the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities.