WARREN, Pa. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District invites the public to review and comment on proposed revisions to the Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir Master Plan and Environmental Assessment. The 30-day public comment period is open from April 13 through May 15, 2026. The revision will guide the management of recreational activities and natural resources at Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir for the next 25 years.
Overview
The Pittsburgh District is hosting a 30-day public comment period to collect community feedback on proposed changes to the Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir master plan and environmental assessment. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations require periodic reviews of master plans to ensure they meet current public and environmental needs. The original 1977 Master Plan no longer serves its intended purpose due to changes at Kinzua, regional demographics, surrounding land usage, and updated Corps policies.
The updated Master Plan includes revised land and water classifications to better reflect current management practices and environmental stewardship priorities. Key updates include:
- Updated land classifications consistent with current Corps regulations (EP 1130-2-550)
- Designation of Environmentally Sensitive Areas (247.4 acres)
- Refined recreation management zones (high-density and low-density recreation areas)
- Enhanced wildlife management areas (1,404.9 acres)
- Water surface classifications including designated no-wake zones and fish and wildlife sanctuaries
- Management recommendations for addressing harmful algal blooms, invasive species, and threatened/endangered species habitat
Community input is critical to updating the master plan and will affect the management and usage of Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir for the next 25 years.
How to Review the Documents
Online Access:
The draft Master Plan document is available at:
https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getfile/collection/p16021coll7/id/28858
The draft Environmental Assessment is available at:
https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getfile/collection/p16021coll7/id/28903
Physical Copies:
Physical copies of the master plan and environmental assessment drafts are available at the following locations:
- Warren Public Library
205 Market Street
Warren, PA 16365
- Warren County Visitor's Bureau
22045 US-6
Warren, PA 16365
- Salamanca Library
155 Wildwood Avenue
Salamanca, NY 14779
Comment cards and comment folders are available at all addresses for the public to submit feedback.
How to Submit Comments
Comment Deadline: Comments must be received by May 15, 2026.
Submit Comments By:
- Email: dll-celrp-ops-public-comment@usace.army.mil
- Comment Cards: Comment cards and comment boxes are available at the Warren Public Library, Warren County Visitor's Bureau, and Salamanca Library (addresses listed above)
Background
Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir, located in Warren County, Pennsylvania and Cattaraugus County, New York, is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District. The project provides flood risk management, hydroelectric power generation, water quality enhancement, and outdoor recreation opportunities on approximately 12,000 acres of land and water.
The original Master Plan was completed in 1977 and has not been comprehensively updated since. The proposed revision addresses:
- Changes in regional natural resources management, including special status species and invasive species
- Shifts in area demographics and recreation preferences
- Water quality concerns including harmful algal blooms in the northern portion of the reservoir
- Updated Corps policies and land classification systems
- Coordination with the U.S. Forest Service, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
The Environmental Assessment evaluates two alternatives: (1) adoption and implementation of the revised Master Plan (Recommended Alternative), and (2) No Action (continuing to use the 1977 Master Plan). The EA analyzes potential impacts on water quality, fish and wildlife, threatened and endangered species, terrestrial vegetation, shoreline resources, and recreation.
Contact Information
Public and Media Inquiries:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District
Public Affairs Office
Email: CELRP-PA@usace.army.mil
Phone: (412) 395-7500
This notice is issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District to ensure the public has an opportunity to provide input on the proposed Master Plan and Environmental Assessment revision for Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir.