Bull Run Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bull Run, located in Penn Township, Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and spans a length of 520 feet, with a storage capacity of 383 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Bull Run plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation and damage during severe weather events.

The dam is regulated and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that it meets necessary safety standards. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Bull Run is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in September 2019. The structure boasts a well-maintained state, with regular inspections conducted to monitor its integrity and functionality. Its strategic location and design make it an essential component in the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bull Run serves as a remarkable example of infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and protect communities from potential disasters. Its historical significance, coupled with its effective flood control measures, highlights the importance of investing in resilient water management systems to safeguard against the impacts of changing climate patterns. As a key asset in the region's flood risk reduction strategy, Bull Run contributes to building a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for the local area.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

520

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

BULL RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

383

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.