Colver Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Colver is a significant dam located in Cambria Township, Pennsylvania, along the North Branch Black Lick Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1994, it stands at a height of 52 feet and stretches 1200 feet in length, serving as a crucial water supply source with a storage capacity of 2263 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, contributing to the normal storage of 1309 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 76.4 acres within a drainage area of 5.3 square miles.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Colver is designated as a state-regulated dam, undergoing regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition. Its inspection frequency is set at once per year, with the last inspection conducted in October 2019. The dam's location and design, featuring an earth core with buttress foundations, highlight its importance in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with its operation.

Colver's presence underscores the critical role of infrastructure in water resource management, offering valuable insights for climate and water enthusiasts. The dam's strategic positioning within the Pittsburgh District and its regulation by state authorities demonstrate a proactive approach towards maintaining water supply infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, Colver serves as a key example of sustainable water resource management through effective dam construction and regulatory oversight. Its contribution to local water supply needs and environmental sustainability emphasize the importance of responsible infrastructure development in shaping resilient communities in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH BLACK LICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

76.4

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

2263

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

52
       
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.