Canonsburg Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Peters Township, Pennsylvania, Canonsburg, also known as Canonsburg Lake, is a state-owned water resource with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1943, this gravity dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a length of 525 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1841 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Little Chartiers Creek and is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a surface area of 76 acres and a normal storage capacity of 820 acre-feet, Canonsburg offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition, with the most recent inspection conducted in September 2020. The dam underwent structural modifications in 2012, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its safety and integrity for the surrounding community.

Managed by the state of Pennsylvania, Canonsburg serves as a vital water resource for both recreational and environmental purposes. With its rich history dating back to the early 20th century, this dam continues to be a popular destination for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, showcasing the importance of responsible water resource management in preserving natural ecosystems and ensuring public safety.

Years Modified

2012 - Structural

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

LITTLE CHARTIERS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

76

Drainage Area

46

Nid Storage

1841

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

45
       
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.