Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this dam stands at 33 feet high and spans 560 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Despite its recreational significance, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential and is currently assessed as being in poor condition.
Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Van Meter is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam is situated in CUSSEWAGO TOWNSHIP and falls under the jurisdiction of the Buffalo District. While its last inspection in June 2019 revealed poor conditions, the dam remains operational for recreational activities. However, with its significant hazard potential, there is a pressing need for risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and water resources.
As a key feature for recreational purposes in the region, Van Meter plays a vital role in water resource management. Its poor condition assessment highlights the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to prevent potential risks and ensure the safety of both the dam and the community it serves. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate should closely follow the developments of Van Meter to support efforts in maintaining and improving its structural integrity for sustainable recreation and water management.
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR CUSSEWAGO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
1.38 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Woodcock Creek At Woodcock Creek Dam
|
63cfs |
Woodcock Creek At Blooming Valley
|
17cfs |
French Creek At Meadville
|
822cfs |
Brandy Run Near Girard
|
16cfs |
French Creek Near Union City
|
447cfs |
Walnut Creek Upstream Pool
|
57cfs |
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.
Van Meter
Thomas Lakeside Marina