Duncan Ave West Flood Control Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Duncan Ave West Flood Control, located in McCandless Township, Pennsylvania, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along the South Branch Pine Creek.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 380 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 54.3 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.21 square miles, this dam plays a significant role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the area.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Duncan Ave West Flood Control has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in June 2019. With a designated inspection frequency of every two years, the dam is regularly monitored to ensure its structural integrity and effectiveness in flood control. While details about its construction year and design specifics are not provided, the dam's primary purpose remains flood risk reduction, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential water-related disasters.

With Conor Lamb serving as the United States Congressional representative for the area, Duncan Ave West Flood Control stands as a vital infrastructure in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, structures like this earth dam play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting local communities from the adverse effects of extreme weather events. As such, ongoing maintenance and monitoring of Duncan Ave West Flood Control are essential to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the area from potential flooding incidents.

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

SOUTH BRANCH PINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

54.3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.