Heritage Reservation Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Heritage Reservation in Fayette, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned recreational area situated along the picturesque Little Sandy Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam at Heritage Reservation, completed in 1979, stands at a height of 66 feet and spans a length of 770 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 3100 acre-feet. With a surface area of 252 acres and a drainage area of 5.8 square miles, the site offers a tranquil and scenic setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Heritage Reservation is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam structure. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential but is assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections conducted to monitor its performance and address any necessary maintenance or repairs. The site's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are currently unspecified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness efforts to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

Located in Wharton Township and overseen by the Huntington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Heritage Reservation offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental appreciation in a well-maintained and regulated setting. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the area, they can enjoy the beauty of the reservoir while also recognizing the importance of responsible stewardship and proactive risk management to safeguard the dam and surrounding natural habitats for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

66

River Or Stream

LITTLE SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

252

Drainage Area

5.8

Nid Storage

8800

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

66
       
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.