Ethel Springs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ethel Springs, located in Derry Borough, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

This earth-type dam, completed in 1900, stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 650 feet along TR McGee Run. With a storage capacity of 493 acre-feet, Ethel Springs primarily serves as a water supply source for the surrounding area, holding a normal storage volume of 357 acre-feet across its 34-acre surface area.

Despite its historical significance, Ethel Springs poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees the state-regulated dam, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place. The last inspection in October 2020 revealed the need for significant maintenance and improvements to mitigate risks and enhance safety for downstream communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor Ethel Springs, attention is drawn to the urgent need for rehabilitation to address its deteriorating condition. With its critical role in water supply infrastructure and its potential impact on the surrounding environment, stakeholders are advocating for necessary upgrades to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of this essential dam.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

TR MCGEE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Drainage Area

0.34

Nid Storage

493

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

43
       
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.