Contractors working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District install a 23-foot-tall concrete shaft enclosure weighing approximately 120,000 pounds as part of the guard wall at the Monongahela River Locks and Dam 4 in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, Nov. 16, 2023.

Featured Stories

Filter Featured Stories

Featured Stories

Headwaters Highlights: Shenango River Lake team works year-round to improve federal lands

Pittsburgh District
Published Nov. 7, 2023
Beautiful sights of Shenango River Lake.

The sun rises in horizon beyond Shenango Dam, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 26, 2023. Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project mitigates flooding in the Shenango River Valley as well as the Beaver and upper Ohio rivers. Since its completion in 1965, Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.

Bill Spring, the resource manager for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Shenango River Lake, unloads boxes at one of the reservoir offices in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)

Scott Bartholomew is an area facilities engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District.

Scott Bartholomew, an area facilities engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, shares interesting passions and lifestyle afforded to him via a career with the corps throughout his hometown of Sharon, Pennsylvania. In his professional role, Bartholomew improves critical infrastructure throughout area recreation and flood risk projects, including Shenango River Lake. In his personal life, he enjoys many unique passions and interests, including farming, collecting bourbon, beekeeping, marathon running, fixing vehicles, and enjoying time with his family. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kyler Davis)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.

Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)

Beautiful sights of Shenango River Lake.

The sun rises in horizon beyond the Shenango River Lake dam, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 26, 2023. Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project mitigates flooding in the Shenango River Valley as well as the Beaver and upper Ohio rivers. Since its completion in 1965, Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 10 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 11 of 38

Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 12 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 13 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 14 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 15 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 16 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 17 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 18 of 38

Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)

Scott Bartholomew is an area facilities engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 19 of 38

Scott Bartholomew, an area facilities engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, shares interesting passions and lifestyle afforded to him via a career with the corps throughout his hometown of Sharon, Pennsylvania. In his professional role, Bartholomew improves critical infrastructure throughout area recreation and flood risk projects, including Shenango River Lake. In his personal life, he enjoys many unique passions and interests, including farming, collecting bourbon, beekeeping, marathon running, fixing vehicles, and enjoying time with his family. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kyler Davis)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 20 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 21 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 22 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 23 of 38

Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 24 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 25 of 38

Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 26 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 27 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 28 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 29 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

A maintenance mechanic completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 30 of 38

Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 31 of 38

Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 32 of 38

Kidd’s Mill Bridge at Shenango River Lake offers recreational opportunities for hikers and visitors upstream from the reservoir in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 33 of 38

The view from inside of Kidd’s Mill Bridge reveals the upstream river that flows into Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 34 of 38

Hannah VanOrd and Aaron Haflich, park rangers for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Shenango River Lake, talk with their resource manager at the reservoir in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 35 of 38

Bill Spring, the resource manager for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Shenango River Lake, discusses a greenhouse with park rangers Hannah VanOrd and Aaron Haflich, who recently built the greenhouse at the reservoir in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 36 of 38

Water from Shenango River Lake flows from the dam into Shenango River in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)

Beautiful sights of Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 37 of 38

Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project mitigates flooding in the Shenango River Valley as well as the Beaver and upper Ohio rivers. Since its completion in 1965, Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

Beautiful sights of Shenango River Lake.
PHOTO DETAILS  /   DOWNLOAD HI-RES 38 of 38

The sun rises in horizon over the Shenango River Lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 26, 2023. Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project mitigates flooding in the Shenango River Valley as well as the Beaver and upper Ohio rivers. Since its completion in 1965, Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)

MERCER COUNTY, Pa. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.

More than 700,00 visitors enjoy Shenango River Lake each year. Residents and faraway travelers visit Shenango’s wooden trails and calm waters through all seasons. The reservoir offers opportunities such as hiking, camping, fishing, disc golf tournaments, paddle sports on the water, and dirt bike riding on a 200-acre all-terrain vehicle park, and more.

Beautiful sights of Shenango River Lake.
Shenango River Lake
Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project mitigates flooding in the Shenango River Valley as well as the Beaver and upper Ohio rivers. Since its completion in 1965, Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 231024-A-TI382-1084

“It’s an awesome place to work and serve the public,” said Brian Serafin, a maintenance mechanic at Shenango River Lake. “Shenango has so much to offer that no two days are ever the same.”

The Pittsburgh District completed the dam that formed the Shenango reservoir in 1965. Congress authorized the construction through the Flood Control Act of 1938.

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.
Shenango River Lake maintenance
Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)
Photo By: Emily Helton
VIRIN: 230811-A-JV047-1587

Shenango is one of 16 flood-control reservoirs within the Pittsburgh District. Since its construction, the Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages.

A team of park rangers, maintenance workers, and a resource manager keep the dam operating, making the recreational opportunities offered by the lake possible every day. Their work not only serves the public and the environment today but for generations to come.

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
Shenango River Lake Shoreline
Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)
Photo By: Kelsie Hall
VIRIN: 231024-A-RC524-2354

“We love being able to make upgrades for the public,” said Serafin, who has worked at Shenango for more than 12 years.

The maintenance mechanics have two main projects coming up: upgrading the campground entrance and remodeling a restroom. Serafin has been in talks with Shenango Resource Manager Bill Spring about adding a stone wall, a water feature, lights, trees, a welcoming sign, and other items to improve the entrance, which is the first thing people see when they visit the campgrounds.

Maintenance work at the Shenango River Lake campground.
Shenango River Lake maintenance
Brian Serphin, a maintenance mechanic with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh Distirct, clears a burm to enlarge multiple camp sites and increase electrical capacity at the Shenango Creek Lake recreation area campground, Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023 The work being done will improve visitor experience, adding higher electric amps and larger sites to attract more campers to the area. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Emily Helton)
Photo By: Emily Helton
VIRIN: 230810-A-JV047-1277

“To beautify the entrance and make it pleasing is going to impact the visitors' outlook on our campground, our team, and our organization,” Spring said.

The same can be said for the restrooms, which the team will completely remodel. They will  install new sinks, showers, flooring, and wall tiles.

The staff will also add more outlets to all restrooms, improving the experience for all guests. They will also increase electric access at the campsites by adding 50-amp wire and extending camping pads to encourage more visitors.

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
Shenango River Lake
Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)
Photo By: Charles Delano
VIRIN: 231024-A-PA223-1034

No two days are the same for the park rangers at Shenango River Lake. They are consistently contributing to the visitor’s experience by improving the grounds.

“Unpredictability is the beauty of it,” said Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger. “One day, you might be out planting pollinator plots, spreading seeds, and the next day you, might be out fixing a sign or just being out in nature.”

Beautiful sights of Shenango River Lake.
Shenango River Lake
The sun rises in horizon over the Shenango River Lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 26, 2023. Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project mitigates flooding in the Shenango River Valley as well as the Beaver and upper Ohio rivers. Since its completion in 1965, Shenango Dam has prevented more than $252 million in flood damages. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District photo by Michel Sauret)
Photo By: Michel Sauret
VIRIN: 231026-A-TI382-1971

The rangers regularly work on cutting, replanting, or offsetting flora around the lake, bringing more native trees and flowers to the area. They will also install new playground equipment soon to add more safe play options for children.

With only four full-time park rangers, the team relies on summer hires and camp hosts who offer an extra hand during busier seasons. Camp hosts volunteer at least twenty hours a week from May through September or October to serve as the eyes and ears of the campground. Volunteers serve a vital role in preserving federal lands and resources for everyone.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District constructed Shenango River Lake to reduce flooding, save lives and protect property. However, in the years since, the dam, reservoir and federal lands have become a major hotspot for outdoor recreation.
Shenango River Lake
Hannah VanOrd and Aaron Haflich, park rangers for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District at Shenango River Lake, talk with their resource manager at the reservoir in Mercer County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 27, 2023. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Spc. Cherish Little)
Photo By: Spc. Cherish Little
VIRIN: 231027-A-XE056-1573

“We could not keep the campground running without the help from our volunteer hosts,” VanOrd said. “There are four of us and thousands of acres to preserve.”

The camp hosts consistently show up every year with an understanding of their duties and a positive, ‘ready to go’ attitude, VanOrd said.

“Everybody takes pride in the work we do here,” said Aaron Haflich, another full-time park ranger.

A maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake.
Shenango River Lake Shoreline
Adam Rentz, a maintenance mechanic with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, completes a shoreline stabilization project work using a backhoe at Shenango River Lake in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, Oct. 24, 2023. Shoreline erosion increases as water levels of Shenango River Lake rise. Maintenance workers at Shenango perform regular improvement projects to ensure visitors can enjoy the area for recreation over time. Completed in 1965, Shenango River Lake is one of 16 flood-control projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District. Shenango also provides water releases during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, recreation and aquatic life. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Kelsie Hall)
Photo By: Kelsie Hall
VIRIN: 231024-A-RC524-3963

“Every one of us has a special connection with nature, recreation, and public outreach. There’s a great passion that shows when people show up to work here. Their joy is radiant for this place,” Haflich said.

The team at Shenango River Lake has a diverse set of skills and passions. That diversity allows them to leverage their experiences and perspectives to serve their community better.

Shenango River Lake offers great visitor experiences year-round
Shenango River Lake
Hannah VanOrd, a park ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, works as a natural resource specialist at Shenango River Lake in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. As part of her duties, VanOrd improves visitor experiences, coordinates volunteers for Shenango River Lake projects, manages pollinator plots, wildlife food plots, fish habitats and bird habitats. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo by Charles Delano)
Photo By: Charles Delano
VIRIN: 231024-A-PA223-1029

“Headwaters Highlights” is part of a story series to highlight every one of the facilities or teams that make the Pittsburgh District’s mission possible. Pittsburgh District’s 26,000 square miles include portions of western Pennsylvania, northern West Virginia, eastern Ohio, western Maryland, and southwestern New York. It has more than 328 miles of navigable waterways, 23 navigation locks and dams, 16 multi-purpose flood-control reservoirs, 42 local flood-protection projects, and other projects to protect and enhance the nation’s water resources, infrastructure and environment.


Chick Lock

Through deeds, not words, we are BUILDING STRONG®