Hutchinson Fresh Water Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hutchinson Fresh Water is a privately owned dam located in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, specifically in Sewickley Township.


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Summary

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this dam serves primarily for recreation and grade stabilization purposes along the TR Sewickley Creek. With a height of 65 feet and a storage capacity of 980 acre-feet, this earth dam provides a surface area of 20 acres and covers a drainage area of 0.14 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and current "Not Rated" condition assessment, Hutchinson Fresh Water has not been inspected since June 2017 and is due for inspection every 5 years. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear, with no recent updates or assessments available. With its proximity to a residential area and the potential risks associated with dam failure, it is crucial for stakeholders and enthusiasts in water resource and climate management to stay informed and advocate for regular inspections, maintenance, and improvement measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important water resource.

As a key recreational site and grade stabilizer along the TR Sewickley Creek, Hutchinson Fresh Water plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and community. With its earth dam structure and a history of state regulatory oversight, this dam represents a significant water resource that requires ongoing attention and support from both private owners and state agencies. By staying engaged with updates on inspections, emergency preparedness, and risk management measures, water resource and climate enthusiasts can help safeguard the integrity and functionality of Hutchinson Fresh Water for current and future generations.

Dam Length

1665

Dam Height

65

River Or Stream

TR SEWICKLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

980

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

65
       
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.