Thomas W Koon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thomas W Koon is a gravity dam located in Cumberland Valley Township, Bedford, Pennsylvania, along the Evitts Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1932, this dam stands at a height of 92 feet and has a length of 726 feet, providing a storage capacity of 12,400 acre-feet for water supply purposes. The dam is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and is considered to have a high hazard potential.

With a satisfactory condition assessment and a history of regular inspections, Thomas W Koon plays a crucial role in ensuring water supply for the region. Its location within the Pittsburgh District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in managing water resources in the area. The dam's strategic position in the watershed contributes to the overall management of the 44.2 square mile drainage area.

As a key infrastructure owned by the local government, Thomas W Koon not only serves as a vital water resource but also highlights the intersection of water management and climate resilience. Its design and construction reflect the engineering ingenuity of the time, and its continued operation underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource demands.

Year Completed

1932

Dam Length

726

Dam Height

92

River Or Stream

EVITTS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

227

Drainage Area

44.2

Nid Storage

12400

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

92
       
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.