Blue Marsh Dam - Dikes A And B Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Blue Marsh Dam - Dikes A and B in Berks County, Pennsylvania, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk reduction along Plum Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, the dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 600 feet, with a storage capacity of 129,900 acre-feet. While the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, it also serves recreation and water supply functions for the surrounding area.

The dam, constructed with stone core and rock foundations, has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections and emergency action planning. USACE actively manages dam-related flood risks by monitoring its condition, prioritizing risk-reduction activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and prepare for potential emergencies. The agency also updates the emergency action plan regularly and conducts maintenance and repairs as needed to ensure the dam's structural integrity.

Despite the risks associated with dam operations, USACE emphasizes the importance of community preparedness and cooperation in managing potential emergencies. By working closely with local authorities and continuously monitoring the dam's health, USACE aims to mitigate flood risks and ensure the safety of residents in the event of a dam-related incident.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Plum Creek

Surface Area

1147

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

175

Nid Storage

129900

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

25
       
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.