Raystown Dam - Hesston Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Raystown Dam - Hesston Dike, located in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, is a crucial structure managed by the U.S.


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Summary

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
       
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.