Emsworth Locks And Dams Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Emsworth Locks and Dams, located in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, along the Ohio River, serve a crucial role in navigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1938 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, these gravity dams stand at a hydraulic height of 22 feet and have a structural height of 25 feet. With a spillway width of 800 feet and a controlled spillway type, the dams can manage a maximum discharge of 300,000 cubic feet per second. The facility also includes two locks that are 600 feet long and 110 feet wide, allowing for the passage of vessels through the river.

The dams have a storage capacity of 42,700 acre-feet and cover a surface area of 2,870 acres, supporting a drainage area of 19,428 acres. While the risk assessment for Emsworth Locks and Dams is rated as very high, the US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages and monitors the facility to address flood risks. By engaging with local emergency managers, updating emergency action plans, and conducting regular maintenance and repairs, the Corps ensures the structural integrity and safety of the dams. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dynamic management of Emsworth Locks and Dams showcases the critical role of infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water resource sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

1928

River Or Stream

OHIO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2870

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

19428

Nid Storage

42700

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 14

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

25
       
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.