Bernhart Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Antietam Egelman Reservoir
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bernhart, located in Muhlenberg Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania, is a local government-owned Earth dam completed in 1865 for recreational purposes along Bernhart Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30 feet and a length of 180 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 203 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the region. However, recent assessments have deemed its condition unsatisfactory with a high hazard potential, highlighting the need for immediate attention and maintenance.
Despite being regulated and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bernhart's maintenance and emergency preparedness measures appear to be lacking, raising concerns about its safety and the surrounding community's well-being. With a drainage area of 2.6 square miles and a surface area of 13 acres, any potential failure of this dam could lead to significant flooding and environmental damage in the area. It is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the rehabilitation and risk management of Bernhart to ensure the safety of both the dam structure and the local residents who enjoy its recreational benefits.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and management of dams like Bernhart to mitigate risks and protect water resources. By staying informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of such structures, we can contribute to the preservation of these vital assets and help safeguard communities from potential disasters. Bernhart serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness in ensuring the long-term sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1865 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
BERNHART CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
203 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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