Wittmer Road Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wittmer Road Detention in McCandless Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, is a vital structure designed for flood risk reduction along Wittmer Run.


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Summary

Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at 25 feet tall and spans 180 feet in length, providing storage of 14.4 acre-feet for floodwater management. With a hazard potential rated as high, Wittmer Road Detention plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the high hazard potential underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and safeguard the community. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Wittmer Road Detention serves as a critical infrastructure in the region's water resource management strategy.

Located within the Pittsburgh District, Wittmer Road Detention underscores the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to address climate-related challenges. As climate change continues to pose threats to water resources, structures like Wittmer Road Detention are essential for enhancing resilience and adapting to the changing environment. By prioritizing proactive measures and investments in water infrastructure, communities can better prepare for future climate impacts and ensure the sustainable management of water resources for generations to come.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

WITTMER RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

14.4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.