Kyle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kyle, a state-owned earth dam in Jefferson, Pennsylvania, is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and serves as a recreational water resource on Kyle Run.


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Summary

Built in 1910 with a height of 33 feet and a length of 1000 feet, it has a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 138 acres. The dam is located in Washington Township and falls under the jurisdiction of the Pittsburgh District.

Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, Kyle's condition assessment is deemed satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. While the dam meets regulatory requirements and undergoes regular inspections, there is no Emergency Action Plan in place. The primary purpose of Kyle is recreation, and it continues to provide opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kyle represents a historical and practical example of dam infrastructure in Pennsylvania. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while managing water flow highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures to ensure safety and efficiency. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the management and condition of dams like Kyle becomes crucial for sustainable water use and conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

KYLE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

138

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

2300

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
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.