Raystown Dam - Hesston Dike, located in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, is a crucial structure managed by the U.S.
Wind
Humidity
Army Corps of Engineers to reduce flood risk in the area. Completed in 1973, the earth dam stands 15 feet tall and spans 177 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 871,000 acre-feet. The reservoir created by the dam, known as Raystown Lake, serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Raystown Branch Juniata River.
While the Hesston Dike plays a vital role in mitigating the risk of flooding to downstream communities, there are potential scenarios, albeit unlikely, that could lead to a breach and subsequent flooding. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers implements regular maintenance, inspections, and monitoring of the dike to ensure its integrity. In the event of a breach, an uncontrolled surge of water could pose a threat to communities downstream, particularly those along Crooked Creek. The Corps actively manages risk and updates emergency response plans to address any potential flood events affecting the dike, highlighting the importance of ongoing vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
177 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
RAYSTOWN BRANCH JUNIATA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8300 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.5 |
Drainage Area |
960 |
Nid Storage |
871000 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Seven Points
|
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Susquehannock - Raystown Lake
|
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Trough Creek State Park
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Canoe Creek State Park
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