Varcoe (Pa-415) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Varcoe (Pa-415) is a vital earth dam located in Berlin Township, Wayne County, Pennsylvania, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR LAURELLA BROOK.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 300 feet, with a storage capacity of 317 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Varcoe (Pa-415) is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring its continued safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region.

The dam's strategic location within the Philadelphia District of the USACE and its state-regulated status underscore its critical role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With a drainage area of 0.84 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 8 acre-feet, Varcoe (Pa-415) plays a crucial role in managing stormwater runoff and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events. Its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlights the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and federal entities to safeguard water resources and enhance flood control measures in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Varcoe (Pa-415) in flood risk reduction and its operational oversight by state regulatory agencies provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between infrastructure, environmental protection, and community safety. By recognizing the dam's role in managing water flows, mitigating flood risks, and ensuring public safety, stakeholders can work together to enhance its resilience, address maintenance needs, and implement risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding area from potential hazards and promote sustainable water resource management practices.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR LAURELLA BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.84

Nid Storage

317

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.