Upper Ridge Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Ridge is a vital water supply dam located in Derry Township, Westmoreland, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1915, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet, with a length of 165 feet, and a storage capacity of 9 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of providing water supply to the local community, with a normal storage capacity of 7.5 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.31 square miles.

Despite its historical significance and importance for water resource management, Upper Ridge is currently classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulates this dam, ensuring that state inspection, permitting, and enforcement are in place to manage any risks associated with its operation. With its location along the McGee Run river, Upper Ridge is a critical infrastructure that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and reliability for the surrounding area.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, enthusiasts and stakeholders in the water sector are closely following the status of dams like Upper Ridge. With its outdated condition assessment and high hazard potential, there is a pressing need for improved risk management measures, including the development of emergency action plans and regular inspection protocols. The future of Upper Ridge will depend on proactive measures taken by the relevant authorities to address its vulnerabilities and ensure the safety of the community it serves.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

165

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

MCGEE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

1.31

Nid Storage

9

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.