Shaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shaw Dam, located in Cumberland Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated on TR Marsh Creek, this earth dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. Despite its condition, the dam is inspected every two years to ensure public safety.

Although specific details such as dam height, volume, and completion year are not provided, the dam's location in Adams County, Pennsylvania, within the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its importance. With a drainage area of 1.35 square miles, Shaw Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, especially in times of heavy rainfall and potential flooding. The dam's regulatory compliance and inspection frequency underscore its significance in protecting the surrounding communities and environment.

Given its poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential, Shaw Dam requires vigilant oversight and maintenance to mitigate risks and ensure its effectiveness in water resource management. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the dam's condition, enforcement of regulatory standards, and emergency preparedness measures to safeguard against potential hazards and preserve the integrity of this vital infrastructure for future generations.

River Or Stream

TR MARSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.35

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown
       
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.