No 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

No 5 is a historic earth dam located in Scranton City, Pennsylvania, along the Stafford Meadow Brook.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1888, this dam serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization and stands at a height of 35 feet with a length of 248 feet. It has a storage capacity of 206 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 98 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres.

Despite its age, No 5 is still regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and potential risk management measures. With its historical significance and crucial role in water resource management, No 5 serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring aging infrastructure to prevent potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by No 5, as it embodies the intersection of historical preservation, environmental protection, and infrastructure management. As efforts continue to assess and address the dam's condition and potential risks, it also serves as a testament to the ongoing importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates and increasing demands on our natural resources. No 5 stands as a tangible reminder of the complex interplay between human activities and the environment, underscoring the need for proactive measures to safeguard our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1888

Dam Length

248

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

STAFFORD MEADOW BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

206

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.