Allegheny River Lock And Dam 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Allegheny River Lock and Dam 8, also known as Allegheny River Pool 08, is a gravity dam located in Kittanning, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Completed in 1931 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of this structure is navigation, with hydroelectric capabilities as well. The dam stands at a structural height of 60 feet and has a hydraulic height of 40 feet, with a length of 1064 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 70,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is continuously monitored and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to address flood risks associated with the structure. Emergency action plans are regularly updated, and risk management measures are implemented to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. With a drainage area of 8,844 square miles and a storage capacity of 15,200 acre-feet, Allegheny River Lock and Dam 8 plays a crucial role in water resource management and navigation along the Allegheny River. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this historical and functional dam an intriguing subject of study and appreciation for its contributions to the region.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

1064

River Or Stream

ALLEGHENY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1010

Length Of Locks

360

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

8844

Nid Storage

15200

Structural Height

60

Outlet Gates

None - 0, Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

60
       
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.