Kinzua Upper Reservoir Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

The Kinzua Upper Reservoir Dike, also known as Seneca Dam, is a rockfill dam located in Warren, Pennsylvania, along the Allegheny River.


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Summary

Built in 1970 for hydroelectric purposes, this impressive structure stands at a height of 135 feet and has a storage capacity of 5,987 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 100 feet, the dam has a high hazard potential, making it a critical piece of infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Managed by a private owner, the Kinzua Upper Reservoir Dike is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and undergoes inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level and is equipped with emergency action plans to mitigate any potential risks. The dam plays a crucial role in providing hydroelectric power and water storage for the surrounding area, highlighting its importance in sustainable resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

6430

Dam Height

113

River Or Stream

Allegheny River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

109

Hydraulic Height

69

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

5987

Structural Height

135

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

135
       
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.