Lower Owl Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lower Owl Creek is a vital water supply dam located in Tamaqua Borough, Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Completed in 1883, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 36 feet and has a length of 620 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 280 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of providing water supply for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 169 acre-feet.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Lower Owl Creek dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is deemed satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. Additionally, the dam underwent modifications in 2013 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower Owl Creek offers a fascinating case study in dam management and regulation. As a critical infrastructure for water supply in the region, the dam's history, design, and operational aspects provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resource management, environmental protection, and risk assessment. With its rich history dating back to the late 19th century, Lower Owl Creek dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Years Modified

2013 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1883

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

OWL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

280

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.