Towamensing Trails Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Towamensing Trails is a private recreational area located in Carbon County, Pennsylvania, nestled within the picturesque Penn Forest Township.


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Summary

The community is home to a dam constructed in 1977 on Wolf Run, serving as the primary source of water for residents and visitors. With a dam height of 38 feet and a length of 3200 feet, the earth dam provides a storage capacity of 3001 acre-feet, supporting various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming across its 190-acre surface area.

The dam at Towamensing Trails is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in fair condition following a structural modification in 2011. Regular inspections are conducted to monitor the dam's integrity, with the most recent inspection taking place in October 2020. While an emergency action plan (EAP) is yet to be prepared, the community remains vigilant in managing potential risks and ensuring the safety of its residents and surrounding environment.

As an essential water resource within the region, Towamensing Trails plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities while maintaining a balance between conservation and public safety. With its stunning natural surroundings and strategic location, the dam on Wolf Run continues to be a focal point for water and climate enthusiasts alike, showcasing the importance of responsible stewardship and sustainable management practices in safeguarding our precious water resources for future generations.

Years Modified

2011 - Structural

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

3200

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

WOLF RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

190

Drainage Area

1.6

Nid Storage

3001

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.