Cowans Gap Reservoir Report
Nearby: W H Walker Camp Sinoquipe Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cowans Gap, located in Todd Township, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated recreational area situated along the picturesque Little Aughwick Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam at Cowans Gap, completed in 1936, stands at a height of 32.3 feet and serves as a vital resource for water storage, with a capacity of 1030 acre-feet. With a surface area of 54 acres and a drainage area of 5.3 square miles, Cowans Gap offers a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The dam at Cowans Gap is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type, designed for recreational purposes. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition as per the last inspection conducted in June 2020. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the dam to ensure its safety and integrity. Visitors can appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of the structure, which has undergone modifications in 2003 to enhance its hydraulic and structural components.
As a beloved recreational destination in Fulton County, Pennsylvania, Cowans Gap offers a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The dam's role in water storage and management, coupled with its scenic surroundings, makes it a captivating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate. With its rich history, natural beauty, and commitment to safety and regulation, Cowans Gap stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human recreation and environmental stewardship.
Years Modified |
2003 - Hydraulic, 2003 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
32.3 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE AUGHWICK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
54 |
Drainage Area |
5.3 |
Nid Storage |
1030 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cowans Gap