Kooser Run Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kooser Run is a picturesque earth dam located in Somerset, Pennsylvania, within the Baltimore District.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this dam serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding beauty. With a height of 26.5 feet and a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet, Kooser Run offers a serene 4-acre surface area within its 3.23 square mile drainage area.

Managed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Kooser Run is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment is deemed fair. Even with these considerations, the dam continues to provide a valuable recreational space for the community. As a hub for outdoor activities, Kooser Run invites visitors to appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate in a stunning natural setting.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

26.5

River Or Stream

KOOSER RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

3.23

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.