The Youghiogheny River Reservoir dam was built in 1944 for the purpose of flood control and hydroelectric power. The reservoir also provides a constant flow in the Youghiogheny River during summer months for white water rafting and canoeing enthusiasts. The 20 mile stretch of river below the reservoir provide some of the best white water rafting in the east, beginning with class I and II rapids for the first 9 miles and ending with a class III and IV section the next 7 miles. Thousands of recreational boaters, jet skis, fisherman, and campers utilize the reservoir each year.