Zelina Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Zelina is a privately owned dam located in Elk Creek Township, Erie, Pennsylvania, along the TR CUSSEWAGO CREEK.


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Summary

Built in 1974 with a primary purpose of recreation, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 1100 feet, providing a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in March 2021.

With a significant hazard potential, Zelina is an important structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor. The dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, highlighting the need for continued attention to its maintenance and safety. The dam was modified in 2007 for hydraulic improvements, and its emergency action plan status is yet to be determined, making it crucial to ensure preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. As a key recreational feature in the area, Zelina serves both practical and leisure purposes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities while also playing a vital role in water management.

As part of the Buffalo District in Pennsylvania, Zelina contributes to the local landscape and water infrastructure, with a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet for normal operations. Its location in a picturesque setting makes it a popular spot for visitors, but the dam's hazard potential underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With its Earth-type construction and buttress core, Zelina stands as a testament to engineering expertise and the intersection of human activity with natural resources, making it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study.

Years Modified

2007 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR CUSSEWAGO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22.3

Drainage Area

0.85

Nid Storage

154

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.