Kephart Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cold Stream Morrisdale Mine
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Kephart Dam, located in Rush Township, Centre County, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
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Summary
Completed in 1974, this concrete dam on Black Moshannon Creek serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 350 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 5830 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 730 acre-feet and a surface area of 235 acres.
Despite its recreational benefits, Kephart Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition. With the last inspection conducted in December 2020, the dam requires regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and prevent any potential risks. It is crucial for authorities to address the structural issues and develop emergency action plans to mitigate any potential threats associated with the dam's condition.
Given its significance in water resource management and climate resilience, stakeholders and enthusiasts in these fields should closely monitor the state of Kephart Dam and advocate for necessary improvements to enhance its safety and functionality. With its location in a picturesque setting and importance for recreation, it is essential to balance the benefits of the dam with the need for proper maintenance and risk management protocols to safeguard both the environment and local communities.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK MOSHANNON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
235 |
Drainage Area |
15.4 |
Nid Storage |
5830 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Kephart