Devon Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Devon Detention, located in Easttown Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned dam primarily designed for flood risk reduction along the TR Darby Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and spans 500 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that it meets state standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite being categorized as having a significant hazard potential, Devon Detention is currently assessed as being in fair condition. The dam undergoes inspections every two years, with the last assessment conducted in April 2019. The emergency action plan (EAP) status for this structure, including preparedness, revision dates, and contact information, remains undisclosed. While there are no inundation maps or detailed risk assessments available, the dam is actively managed to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

Devon Detention plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in Chester County, Pennsylvania, with its strategic location on TR Darby Creek. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the maintenance and monitoring of this dam are essential for safeguarding against potential flooding disasters. The dam's operation and regulatory oversight by state authorities contribute to its role in protecting the local area from inundation and ensuring the resilience of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TR DARBY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.61

Nid Storage

15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.