Brace Brook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Brace Brook, located in Clinton Township, Wayne County, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this stone dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans a length of 270 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Brace Brook Dam is assessed as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2018. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unlisted, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of emergency preparedness. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, Brace Brook serves as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of human infrastructure and natural water systems in Pennsylvania.

As a structure managed for recreation, Brace Brook Dam provides a glimpse into the historical engineering practices of the early 20th century while offering a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy. With its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam represents a balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the management of water resources. For those interested in the resilience of dams and the regulatory framework that governs their maintenance and operation, Brace Brook serves as a case study in balancing public safety with recreational access in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

BRACE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

154

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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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.