Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Upper is a Stone-type dam located in Penn Township, Perry County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 99 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 134 feet, creating a surface area of 11 acres and draining an area of 6.5 square miles.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Upper is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections. Despite having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently not rated, with the last inspection conducted in May 2015. The dam has undergone modifications in 2002 to enhance its hydraulic and structural integrity, ensuring its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

Located along Cove Run, Upper provides a scenic recreational spot for visitors to enjoy. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam serves as a vital resource for water management and climate resilience in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure for a changing environment.

Years Modified

2002 - Hydraulic, 2002 - Structural

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

134

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

COVE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

6.5

Nid Storage

99

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.