Laurel Hill Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Hill Creek in Somerset, Pennsylvania is a vital water resource managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam, completed in 1954, stands at a height of 22 feet and holds a storage capacity of 2113 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 250 acre-feet and a drainage area of 26.2 square miles, Laurel Hill Creek ensures a stable water supply for the surrounding area.

Despite its low hazard potential, Laurel Hill Creek is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," but regular inspections are carried out every five years to monitor its integrity. With its strategic location in Jefferson Township and the Baltimore District, Laurel Hill Creek plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Laurel Hill Creek to be an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and water management. Its historical significance, moderate storage capacity, and state-regulated operations offer valuable insights into sustainable water supply practices and the importance of dam safety in mitigating climate-related risks. As a key player in the local water supply network, Laurel Hill Creek serves as a prime example of responsible water resource management in Pennsylvania.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

LAUREL HILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Drainage Area

26.2

Nid Storage

2113

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.