Yellow Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Yellow Creek, located in Brush Valley Township in Indiana, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 62 feet and has a length of 625 feet, providing a storage capacity of 37,800 acre-feet. With a surface area of 710 acres and draining an area of 52.5 square miles, Yellow Creek offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, Yellow Creek underwent structural modifications in 2007 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, which oversees permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities to maintain compliance with state regulations. This dam serves as a vital water resource in the region, providing not only recreational opportunities but also essential storage capacity for managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area.

As a significant feature in the Pittsburgh District, Yellow Creek is a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its design, construction, and operational aspects. With a history of serving the community for over five decades, this dam continues to play a crucial role in water management while offering a recreational haven for visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of Yellow Creek and its surrounding environment.

Years Modified

2007 - Structural

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

YELLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

710

Drainage Area

52.5

Nid Storage

37800

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

62
       
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.