SNOFLO
 



RAINBOW (PA-460)

RESERVOIR LEVELS
Unlisted/Unknown Dam Mill Run
April 12, 2025


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Rainbow (Pa-460), also known as Rainbow Lake, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Meadville City, Crawford County, Pennsylvania. Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Mill Run river. Standing at a height of 40 feet and a length of 420 feet, Rainbow has a storage capacity of 850 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 30 acre-feet. Its fair condition assessment indicates a high hazard potential, making it an essential asset for protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Rainbow (Pa-460) undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with regulatory standards. With a drainage area of 7.96 square miles and a surface area of 4 acres, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and preventing downstream inundation. Despite its high hazard potential, Rainbow's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service demonstrate a commitment to flood risk reduction and public safety in the region, making it a key component of water resource management efforts in Crawford County.

As a flood risk reduction structure, Rainbow (Pa-460) not only provides crucial protection against potential flooding but also highlights the collaborative efforts of local government and federal agencies in safeguarding communities and water resources. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, this earth dam continues to serve as a vital infrastructure for managing water flow along the Mill Run river and protecting the residents of Meadville City. The ongoing state regulation and inspection of Rainbow underscore its importance in ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding area, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year_Completed 1964
Dam_Height 40
River_Or_Stream MILL RUN
Dam_Length 420
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Surface_Area 4
Drainage_Area 7.96
Nid_Storage 850
Hazard_Potential High
Foundations Unlisted/Unknown
Nid_Height 40
       

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