Tobyhanna No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Tobyhanna No 2 is a state-regulated dam located in Coolbaugh Township, Monroe County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and spans a length of 860 feet, creating a reservoir that provides recreational opportunities for visitors. The dam has a storage capacity of 2,489 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 172 acres, utilizing water from the Tobyhanna Creek for its operation.

Despite its significant size and importance for recreation, Tobyhanna No 2 has been flagged with a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The dam underwent structural modifications in 2002, indicating ongoing efforts to maintain its safety and integrity. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of this dam, ensuring that it meets state standards for safety and operation.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate network of dams in Pennsylvania, Tobyhanna No 2 stands out as a vital structure with room for improvement. With its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, efforts to enhance its safety and functionality are crucial. The surrounding community, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders need to collaborate to address any potential risks associated with this dam and ensure its continued operation for recreational purposes.

Years Modified

2002 - Structural

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TOBYHANNA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

172

Drainage Area

8.76

Nid Storage

2489

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.