Dinsmore No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dinsmore No 2, a privately owned earth dam located in Smith Township, Pennsylvania, is a crucial part of the state's water resource management infrastructure.


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Summary

Built in 1909 for recreational purposes, this dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a storage capacity of 133 acre-feet. It spans 410 feet across Harmon Creek and covers an area of 10 acres, serving as a popular recreational spot for local residents and visitors alike.

Despite its age, Dinsmore No 2 has been well-maintained and regularly inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With a high hazard potential, the dam poses a significant risk in the event of a failure, making it essential for proper risk assessment and management measures to be in place. The latest inspection in March 2021 deemed the dam's condition as satisfactory, but ongoing monitoring and emergency preparedness are crucial to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in Washington County, Pennsylvania, Dinsmore No 2 serves not only as a recreational destination but also as a key component in the overall water resource management system. With proper regulatory oversight and maintenance practices in place, this dam continues to play a vital role in providing water storage, flood control, and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

HARMON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

3.78

Nid Storage

133

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.