North Fork Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 22, 2026
North Fork, a local government-owned dam in Somerset, Pennsylvania, plays a crucial role in water supply management.
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.
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mph
Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
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
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Stonycreek River At Ferndale
|
2430cfs |
Conemaugh River At Minersville
|
2540cfs |
Little Conemaugh River At East Conemaugh
|
97cfs |
Conemaugh River At Seward
|
3640cfs |
Linn Run At Linn Run State Park Near Rector
|
67cfs |
Blacklick Creek At Josephine
|
1150cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lorain Borough Park
|
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Quemahoning Family Rec Area
|
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Antiochian Village Camp
|
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Camp Ligonier
|
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Stefan's Campsite
|
North Fork
Greenhouse Park