Northampton, located in Northampton, Pennsylvania, is home to a concrete dam built in 1927 along the beautiful Lehigh River.
Wind
Humidity
This private recreational dam stands at a height of 8 feet and spans 280 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is assessed as being in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential, making it a safe and reliable structure for recreation enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Northampton Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and compliance. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, attracting visitors to its picturesque location in Whitehall Township. With a history dating back nearly a century, Northampton Dam remains a testament to enduring engineering and serves as a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Northampton Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our dams for safety and sustainability. With a regular inspection frequency and a satisfactory condition assessment, this recreational dam serves as a model for responsible dam management in the face of changing environmental conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Northampton Dam exemplifies the intersection of history, recreation, and environmental stewardship in Pennsylvania's landscape.
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
LEHIGH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |