Kessler Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kessler is a privately owned dam located in North Codorus Township, York, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of grade stabilization along Powder Creek. With a height of 10.5 feet and a length of 1150 feet, Kessler has a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres. The dam is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, Kessler poses a moderate risk due to its condition assessment being listed as "Not Rated." The dam has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) and lacks updated emergency action plans (EAPs). In 2004, Kessler underwent modifications for hydraulic purposes. While the dam meets state jurisdiction and regulatory requirements, there is room for improvement in terms of risk management measures and emergency preparedness. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Kessler's historical and operational data intriguing, prompting further exploration into its risk assessment and potential future enhancements.

Years Modified

2004 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

10.5

River Or Stream

POWDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

109

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.