Norristown (Swede Street) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Norristown (Swede Street) is a historic dam located in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, along the Schuylkill River.


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Summary

Built in 1800, this timber crib dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 900 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 2,355 acre-feet. While primarily serving a recreational purpose, the dam is also regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

Despite its age, Norristown (Swede Street) is deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition according to the most recent inspection in June 2018. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are currently unspecified, but its construction and design fall under the jurisdiction of the local government. With a location in Norristown Borough and under the ownership of the same, this dam plays a significant role in the local water resource management and offers opportunities for recreational activities in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Norristown (Swede Street) presents a fascinating blend of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship. Its presence along the Schuylkill River contributes to the water supply and recreational landscape of the region, showcasing the importance of well-maintained infrastructure for both public enjoyment and safety. As part of the larger network of dams in Pennsylvania, Norristown (Swede Street) stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of water management efforts and the ongoing commitment to sustainable practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1800

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SCHUYLKILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

240

Drainage Area

1765

Nid Storage

2355

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.