Unger Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Unger, located in Paupack Township, Wayne County, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1947 for recreational purposes along the Red Shale Brook.


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Summary

This dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a length of 256 feet, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Unger poses a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulates and inspects the dam to ensure public safety.

The dam's condition assessment as poor raises concerns about its ability to withstand potential hazards, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With a drainage area of 0.33 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 47 acre-feet, Unger plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam's location within the Philadelphia District underscores its significance in the region's water management infrastructure.

Given the significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment of Unger, it is imperative for stakeholders and authorities to prioritize its maintenance and risk management measures. The involvement of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection in regulating and inspecting the dam underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure the safety and stability of this vital water resource infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Unger is crucial for promoting sustainable water resource practices in the region.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

256

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

RED SHALE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.