Waste House No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Waste House No 1 is a historic earth dam located in Mahanoy Township, Pennsylvania, that was completed in 1884 for water supply purposes.


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Summary

This dam, standing at a height of 57 feet and spanning a length of 410 feet, holds a normal storage capacity of 176.4 acre-feet in the Wastehouse Run. Operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and regulated by the state, Waste House No 1 is crucial for maintaining water resources in Schuylkill County.

Despite its age, Waste House No 1 is in satisfactory condition according to the last inspection in November 2020, with a high hazard potential due to its location. The dam has a spillway width and outlet gate information that is unlisted, and its associated structures are currently not applicable. With a drainage area of 0.95 square miles, Waste House No 1 serves as a vital component of the water supply infrastructure in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring its integrity for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Overall, Waste House No 1 stands as a testament to the historical significance of water resource management in Pennsylvania, with its enduring presence serving as a reminder of the essential role dams play in ensuring water supply for communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper regulation and maintenance of structures like Waste House No 1 are crucial to safeguarding the environment and meeting the water needs of the future.

Year Completed

1884

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

WASTEHOUSE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.5

Drainage Area

0.95

Nid Storage

244

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

57
       
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.