Laroche College Detention Basin #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Laroche College Detention Basin #2, located in McCandless Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure along TR Little Pine Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1992, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 120 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 5 acre-feet. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this detention basin plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

With a significant hazard potential, regular inspections are conducted on this structure to ensure its satisfactory condition and functionality. The last inspection took place in July 2019, with a frequency of every two years. Despite its age, Laroche College Detention Basin #2 continues to meet the necessary guidelines and requirements set forth by regulatory agencies. Its strategic location and design make it an essential component in the overall flood risk management strategy for the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to recognize the importance of infrastructure like Laroche College Detention Basin #2 in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events and protecting communities from potential disasters. By understanding the role and significance of such structures, we can work towards a more resilient and sustainable future in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR LITTLE PINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.