Auburn Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Auburn is a state-regulated dam located in Schuylkill, Pennsylvania, along the Schuylkill River.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this concrete gravity dam stands at 51 feet high and stretches 820 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 4,500 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, Auburn offers a surface area of 186 acres and a normal storage capacity of 1,900 acre-feet, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities in a scenic setting.

Despite its age, Auburn has undergone structural modifications in 2003 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's condition assessment is rated as fair, with a high hazard potential due to its location and storage capacity. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in October 2020. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is the primary regulatory agency overseeing Auburn, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding community.

As a significant feature along the Schuylkill River, Auburn not only serves as a recreational spot but also plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, Auburn stands as a testament to the importance of responsible dam operation and the need for proactive risk management measures to protect both the environment and the public. For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate adaptation, Auburn offers a compelling case study of how infrastructure can be both a source of enjoyment and a critical component of sustainable development in Pennsylvania.

Years Modified

2003 - Structural

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

SCHUYLKILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

186

Drainage Area

157

Nid Storage

4500

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
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.