Howells Run Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Howells Run, also known as New City Reservoir, is a vital water supply resource located in Cambria Township, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

This local government-owned dam was completed in 1964 and stands at a height of 64 feet, with a length of 670 feet. With a storage capacity of 2076 acre-feet and a surface area of 82 acres, Howells Run plays a crucial role in providing water for the surrounding area.

Regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Howells Run is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as satisfactory, maintaining a good condition. Emergency action plans are in place, although details regarding their preparation and last revision date are not available. The dam's risk assessment and management measures are yet to be determined, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation to safeguard this essential water resource for the community.

Situated in the Pittsburgh District, Howells Run serves as a key infrastructure for water supply purposes in the region. Its association with Howells Run stream underscores its importance in managing water resources and contributing to environmental sustainability. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water availability and quality, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Howells Run are essential for ensuring a reliable water supply for the future.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

64

River Or Stream

HOWELLS RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

82

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

2076

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

64
       
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.