Youghiogheny Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Youghiogheny Dam, also known as Youghiogheny River Lake, is a vital structure located in Fayette, Pennsylvania, owned and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1944, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 184 feet, with a hydraulic height of 177 feet, and a length of 1610 feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply, with a maximum storage capacity of 300,000 acre-feet and a normal storage of 149,300 acre-feet.

Although Youghiogheny Dam plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of flooding downstream, there are potential hazards that could lead to significant flooding events. The most recent risk assessment conducted in 2020 categorized the risk as moderate, with the most likely scenarios being high-volume releases from the spillway during storm events. In the event of a breach or extreme rainfall, downstream communities such as Confluence, Ursina, and Ohiopyle could face swift and deep floodwaters, overflowing levees and causing widespread damage. However, risk management measures are in place, including regular monitoring, emergency action plans, and collaboration with local authorities to enhance preparedness and response strategies.

In the face of potential risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers is committed to ensuring public safety by closely coordinating with state and local emergency managers, conducting emergency exercises, and providing timely flood warnings based on rainfall forecasts. By engaging with local communities and promoting awareness of flood risks, efforts are focused on minimizing the impact of potential flooding events and safeguarding lives and infrastructure downstream of Youghiogheny Dam.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

1610

River Or Stream

YOUGHIOGHENY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2840

Hydraulic Height

177

Drainage Area

434

Nid Storage

300000

Structural Height

184

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Vertical Lift - 4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

184
       
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.