Prompton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Wayne, Pennsylvania, Prompton Dam, also known as Prompton Lake, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Built in 1961, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 140 feet with a hydraulic height of 127 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 72,800 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Prompton Dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits for recreation.

Despite being classified as a high hazard potential dam, extensive risk management measures have been implemented to enhance its safety. In 2012, modifications were made to increase the spillway's flow capacity and raise the dam's height, reducing the risk of overtopping during extreme flood events. Regular inspections, monitoring, and emergency preparedness protocols are in place to ensure the dam's structural integrity and mitigate potential risks to downstream communities such as Honesdale and Hawley. These efforts demonstrate the commitment of the US Army Corps of Engineers to safeguarding water resources and protecting against the impacts of climate-related events.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

1200

River Or Stream

LACKAWAXEN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

290

Hydraulic Height

127

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

72800

Structural Height

140

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

140
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.