Piney Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Piney is a hydroelectric dam located in Pennsylvania, specifically in Clarion County.


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Summary

Completed in 1924, this dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a maximum storage capacity of 26,600 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 26,600 acre-feet, Piney plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam stands at a height of 125 feet with a hydraulic height of 118 feet and a structural height of 129 feet. It has a length of 784 feet and a spillway width of 350 feet, making it a significant structure for water management in the area. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Piney is closely monitored by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safety and functionality.

Piney has 14 Tainter (radial) outlet gates and a maximum discharge capacity of 153,300 cubic feet per second. The dam is crucial for maintaining the stability of the Clarion River and surrounding areas in terms of water supply, flood control, and energy production. As a key player in the water resource infrastructure of Pennsylvania, Piney showcases the importance of sustainable and efficient water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

784

Dam Height

125

River Or Stream

Clarion River

Surface Area

653

Hydraulic Height

118

Drainage Area

951

Nid Storage

26600

Structural Height

129

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 14

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

129
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.