Sheppard Myers Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sheppard Myers is a vital water resource facility located in West Manheim Township, York, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this earth dam was completed in 1933 and serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 1,213 acre-feet. The dam stands at 38 feet tall and spans a length of 760 feet, impounding the waters of the South Branch Conewago Creek.

Despite its critical role in water supply, Sheppard Myers poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as having poor condition. It falls under the regulatory oversight of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety. The dam's last inspection in March 2021 revealed the need for improvement, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and safeguard the surrounding community.

With its historical significance as a water resource infrastructure in Pennsylvania, Sheppard Myers stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the ongoing need for investment in dam safety. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the resilience and functionality of structures like Sheppard Myers is crucial for mitigating risks and maintaining a reliable water supply for the region.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

SOUTH BRANCH CONEWAGO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

58

Drainage Area

5.7

Nid Storage

1213

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.