Kauffman Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Kauffman Reservoir, located in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, was completed in 1896 and serves as a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

With a dam height of 68 feet and a storage capacity of 413 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in providing water for various purposes, including domestic, agricultural, and industrial use. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the reservoir is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and efficiency.

The reservoir is situated in New Castle Township and is fed by Kauffman Run, covering a surface area of 19 acres with a drainage area of 0.88 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential, Kauffman Reservoir has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition, meeting guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures. With its significant role in water resource management and climate resilience, Kauffman Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As a local government-owned facility, Kauffman Reservoir exemplifies the collaboration between state agencies and communities in safeguarding water resources. With its earth dam structure and buttress core type, the reservoir has been a reliable source of water for over a century, demonstrating the resilience and longevity of well-maintained water infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the story of Kauffman Reservoir serves as a reminder of the critical role that sustainable water management plays in ensuring the well-being of both people and the environment in the face of evolving challenges.

Year Completed

1896

Dam Length

573

Dam Height

68

River Or Stream

KAUFFMAN RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

0.88

Nid Storage

413

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

68
       
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.