Keister Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Keister is a privately owned dam located in Menallen Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at 33 feet tall and spans 380 feet in length, providing recreational opportunities along the TR Jennings Run river or stream. With a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, Keister offers a surface area of 16 acres and drains an area of 1.5 square miles.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Keister is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition assessment, the dam undergoes inspections every five years to monitor its structural integrity. While there are currently no emergency action plans in place, Keister remains a key feature for recreational purposes in the area, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy its serene surroundings and water-based activities.

Additionally, Keister falls under the jurisdiction of the Huntington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers and is represented by Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (R). As a vital part of the water resource infrastructure in Pennsylvania, Keister serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in safeguarding both the environment and public safety. Its rich history, picturesque setting, and regulatory oversight make it a significant location for those interested in water resources and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR JENNINGS RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

92

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.