Little Blue Run Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Little Blue Run, located in Greene Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately-owned rockfill dam with a staggering height of 400 feet and a length of 2100 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this dam serves multiple purposes, with a storage capacity of 73,000 acre-feet of water. The dam's primary function is listed as "Other," and it is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with frequent inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Little Blue Run has been assessed to be in fair condition. The dam underwent modifications in 2005 and 2007 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 2.9 square miles and a surface area of 770 acres, making it a significant water resource in Beaver County, Pennsylvania. With a normal storage capacity of 64,754 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's location near the Little Blue Run river and its association with the Pittsburgh District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight its importance in flood control and water management efforts. The presence of Conor Lamb as the local congressional representative underscores the political significance of this water resource. Climate and water enthusiasts interested in the management and regulation of dams will find Little Blue Run to be a compelling case study in the intersection of environmental protection, infrastructure development, and public safety.

Years Modified

2005 - Hydraulic, 2007 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

400

River Or Stream

LITTLE BLUE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

770

Drainage Area

2.9

Nid Storage

73000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

400
       
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.