North Fork Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

North Fork, a local government-owned dam in Somerset, Pennsylvania, plays a crucial role in water supply management.


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Summary

Completed in 1932, this Earth dam stands at a height of 105 feet and spans 900 feet, with a storage capacity of 4316 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, serving to regulate the flow of the North Fork Bens Creek.

Despite its essential function, North Fork poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment, prompting concerns for risk management. With a very high risk rating, this dam's safety and stability are critical issues that require attention and strategic measures to mitigate potential hazards. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement for this dam, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.

As a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region, North Fork serves as a critical asset for Conemaugh Township. However, with its high hazard potential and poor condition, there is an urgent need for risk assessment, management measures, and maintenance to safeguard the dam's integrity and the surrounding community. Collaboration between local authorities, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders is essential to address the challenges posed by this vital water supply structure and ensure its long-term resilience in the face of evolving climate and environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1932

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

105

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK BENS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

94

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

4316

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

105
       
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.