Hamburg Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hamburg Reservoir, located in Windsor Township, Pennsylvania, is a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans 500 feet, with a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 7.6 acres and serves as a crucial resource for the local community, with a normal storage capacity of 106 acre-feet.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Hamburg Reservoir plays a key role in ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding area. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2020. With its primary purpose being water supply, the reservoir continues to be a critical infrastructure for maintaining water security in Berks County.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hamburg Reservoir offers a fascinating insight into the intricate system that supports water supply in the region. With its strategic location on Furnace Creek and its significant storage capacity, this reservoir serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. As climate change impacts water resources worldwide, Hamburg Reservoir stands as a crucial asset in ensuring water security for the community it serves.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

FURNACE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.6

Drainage Area

1.42

Nid Storage

180

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

53
       
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.