Waterfall Way Detention Basin Reservoir Report
Nearby: Canonsburg Canonsburg No 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Waterfall Way Detention Basin, located in Peters Township, Washington County, Pennsylvania, is a vital infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction along TR Brush Run.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this local government-owned earth dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 9.7 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.45 square miles, this significant structure plays a crucial role in managing stormwater runoff and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding.
Despite being categorized as having a significant hazard potential, Waterfall Way Detention Basin has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in October 2018. The dam is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. While details about its construction year and specific design features are not provided, the basin serves as a key component of the local flood control system, highlighting the importance of proactive infrastructure measures in mitigating water-related risks in the region.
As a notable example of flood risk reduction infrastructure, Waterfall Way Detention Basin underscores the critical role that earth dams play in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. With its strategic location and storage capacity, this basin serves as a key element in the broader network of water resource management initiatives in Pennsylvania. As climate change continues to influence precipitation patterns and intensify flood risks, the proper maintenance and monitoring of structures like the Waterfall Way Detention Basin are essential for ensuring the resilience and safety of the surrounding area.
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR BRUSH RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.45 |
Nid Storage |
9.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chartiers Creek At Carnegie
|
105cfs |
Monongahela River At Elizabeth
|
21100cfs |
Youghiogheny River At Sutersville
|
1030cfs |
Little Pine Creek Near Etna
|
2cfs |
Ohio River At Sewickley
|
10300cfs |
South Fork Tenmile Creek At Jefferson
|
50cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Waterfall Way Detention Basin
Canonsburg Lake