Laurel Run Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Laurel Run is a privately-owned dam located in Lackawanna, Pennsylvania, specifically in Archbald Borough.


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Summary

Built in 1894, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 44 feet and stretches 210 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, Laurel Run serves as a picturesque spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. The dam has a storage capacity of 38 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its tranquil waters.

Despite its recreational appeal, Laurel Run poses a high hazard potential and is categorized as having a fair condition assessment. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulates the dam, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are undisclosed, its last inspection in August 2020 suggests ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to keep visitors safe. With a rich history dating back over a century, Laurel Run continues to be a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solace in its waters and surrounding natural landscape.

Year Completed

1894

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

LAUREL RUN

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

38

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.