Authorized by the Flood Control Acts of 1936 and 1938, Mahoning Creek Lake is one of 16 flood control projects in the Pittsburgh District. An important link in a system of flood control projects, Mahoning provides flood protection for the lower Allegheny River Valley and the upper Ohio River.
Since its completion in 1941, the Mahoning project has prevented flood damages estimated to be in excess of $686 million. Mahoning has the capability to store the equivalent run-off of 4.09 inches of precipitation from its 340 square mile drainage area. When compared to the savings which have resulted the estimated construction cost of $6 million appears small.
Mahoning also stores water and releases it downstream during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, navigation, recreation, esthetics and aquatic life.