Wadham Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Wadham Creek, located in Luzerne, Pennsylvania, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for debris control.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, constructed in 1959, stands at 30 feet high and spans 400 feet in length. It serves the primary purpose of debris control in the area, with a storage capacity of 12 acre-feet to regulate water flow and prevent potential hazards.

The dam's high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees the regulation, permitting, and enforcement of the dam, emphasizing the commitment to safety and environmental protection in the region. With a moderate risk assessment, stakeholders must remain vigilant in implementing risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats to the community.

As an essential component of water resource management in Plymouth Borough, Wadham Creek serves as a critical infrastructure for safeguarding against floods and maintaining water quality in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate design and operation of this dam, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety in managing our natural resources.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

WADHAM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

12

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.