New Cumberland Dam-Free Water Supply Feasibility Study
American Rivers is conducting a grant-funded study to determine if it is feasible for the Pennsylvania American Water Company to operate a dam-free water supply in the town of New Cumberland.
This feasibility study is meant to help understand if maintaining the water supply in New Cumberland without the dam is possible, and what the costs of that would be. The study will be conducted over the next 18-24 months. No changes to the dam could occur before study completion. The dam will not be removed if a reliable alternate way to supply water to the community cannot be identified.
4 Things to Know About the Feasibility Study
- New Cumberland Dam is owned by Pennsylvania American Water for municipal water use. PA American Water is participating with American Rivers and other partners on the feasibility study.
- If the study proves that dam-free water supply makes sense for all parties, we will collaboratively determine the most effective path to implementing a resilient, dam-free water supply system at no cost to local taxpayers or Pennsylvania American Water rate payers.
- American Rivers is funding the feasibility study and would also secure funding for dam removal if that were to happen at no cost to tax and rate payers.
- We are depending on a team of advisors from the community to help guide the project.
Background on New Cumberland Dam and Yellow Breeches Creek
Why is there a dam in Yellow Breeches Creek?
Pennsylvania American Water operates a lowhead dam on the Yellow Breeches Creek in New Cumberland and Fairview to maintain the necessary water supply for ~100,000 residents across Pennsylvania American Water’s Mechanicsburg system.
Ecology of Yellow Breeches Creek
Yellow Breeches Creek is historically home to migratory fish species, such as American Shad, Alewife, Blueback Herring, American Eel, and other species that depend on them, such as the Eastern Elliptio Mussel that requires American Eel to complete its life cycle. Dams can block these species from accessing their habitat further upstream.
Public Safety
Yellow Breeches Creek is a Pennsylvania Water Trail; being a lowhead dam, New Cumberland Dam is a potential safety hazard to boaters and recreationists.
Aging Dam Infrastructure
New Cumberland Dam was built in 1914 and, like all infrastructure, requires maintenance and inspection. Pennsylvania American Water last performed major work at the dam site in 2004 when they constructed their current source water intake and demolished the old filter plant and intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
We want to hear from you
At this time, we are accepting comments on New Cumberland Dam and your personal experience with the nearby park and surrounding areas.