Annual Reservoir Inspection - Howell's Run Dam

Overview

This document package contains the 2023 Annual Reservoir Inspection Report for Howell's Run Dam, prepared by Stiffler McGraw on behalf of Ebensburg Borough. It includes a transmittal letter to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) and a placeholder page indicating that the review letter for the previous year's report was not received.

Key Details

• Dam Name: Howell's Run Dam
• Location: Ebensburg Borough, Cambria County, Pennsylvania
• DEP ID No. : D11-103
• Inspection Date: October 25, 2023
• Prepared By: Stiffler McGraw (Engineers, Surveyors, Architects)
• Project Engineer: Tyler M. McGraw, P. E.

Inspection Findings and Recommendations

The inspection summary states the dam appeared to be in good condition, but several specific issues were noted that require attention by Borough staff:

• Foundation Drain Erosion: Seepage is flowing behind the weir plate in the eastern spillway wall, eroding the concrete. The report recommends removing the weir plate to minimize deterioration (See Photo 16).
• Vegetation Management: Brush and woody growth on the downstream embankment, upstream slope, left abutment, and outlet headwall need to be cut (See Sketch Plan and Photos 9, 24, 25).
• Animal Burrows: Two notable burrows observed in 2022 could not be located in 2023 due to high brush, but are suspected to still be present. They should be located and filled to prevent damage.
• Wet Areas: New wet areas were identified east and west of the stilling basin. A "swale" of wetness extends parallel to the western spillway wall.
• Pipe Maintenance: Inlet ends of corrugated steel pipes through the stilling basin wall should be cleared of silt. Corroded ends may need repair or replacement (See Photos 15 and 26).
• Seepage Monitoring: Seepage weirs at the outlet works headwall and seeps on the western spillway wall should continue to be monitored.
• Concrete Joint Separation: A concrete joint where the eastern spillway wall meets the stilling basin overflow was notably separated, with water flowing through it. The next joint down is also beginning to separate (See Sketch Plan).
• Pipe Opening: A small pipe opening on the western spillway wall is mostly closed due to fill material. It should continue to be monitored.
• Exposed Rebar: Small portions of exposed rebar were identified on the downstream face of the spillway ogee wall.
• Valve Operation: The primary closure valve should be operated prior to the next year's inspection.
• Security: A lock should be installed on the gate across the access road.

Additional Notes

• Brush Clearing: The report highlights that thick brush previously prevented thorough observations. It strongly encourages Ebensburg to clear these areas annually prior to inspections.
• 2022 Review Status: A separate page indicates that the DEP Review Letter for the 2022 Inspection Report was not received.