Connell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Connell is a private earth dam located in Cherry Township, Sullivan County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

Built in 1915, the dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 250 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 20 acres for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Connell is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety. With a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection took place in August 2019, with a scheduled frequency of every 5 years. While the dam has not been modified or assessed for emergency preparedness, it remains an important water resource for the local community.

Situated on Birch Creek in the Buffalo District, Connell provides a recreational oasis for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the dam continues to serve its purpose while being closely monitored for any potential risks or hazards. Its tranquil setting in the heart of Pennsylvania's wilderness makes it a valuable asset for both the environment and the community it serves.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

BIRCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

2.7

Nid Storage

155

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.