Brownell Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Brownell Reservoir, located in Lackawanna, Pennsylvania, is a historic masonry dam completed in 1908 with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

The reservoir has a dam height of 67 feet and a storage capacity of 3,550 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for the local community. Managed by a private owner, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the reservoir to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines.

Situated in Carbondale Township along Racket Brook, Brownell Reservoir covers a surface area of 126 acres and has a drainage area of 4 square miles. The dam, with a length of 613 feet, poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as being in fair condition. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to play a crucial role in water management for the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure to mitigate risks and ensure reliable water sources for future generations.

With its rich history and significant contribution to water supply, Brownell Reservoir stands as a testament to the engineering achievements of the past. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the reservoir serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing inspections and maintenance to safeguard critical infrastructure. As enthusiasts in water resource and climate issues, Brownell Reservoir's story serves as a compelling example of the intersection between history, engineering, and environmental stewardship in ensuring water security for communities.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

613

Dam Height

67

River Or Stream

RACKET BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

126

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

3550

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

67
       
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.