Egelman Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Egelman Reservoir, located in Reading City, Pennsylvania, is a vital water supply resource managed by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1901, this Earth dam structure on Ross Valley Creek stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 700 feet. With a storage capacity of 21.4 million gallons, the reservoir serves the primary purpose of water supply for the surrounding area.

Despite its historical significance, Egelman Reservoir has a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulates the reservoir, ensuring its compliance with state laws and safety standards. This reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water to the community, but its deteriorating condition underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to safeguard this essential resource for the future.

As a key water source in Berks County, Pennsylvania, Egelman Reservoir serves as a critical lifeline for local residents and businesses. However, its aging infrastructure and poor condition pose challenges that must be addressed to ensure the reservoir's continued functionality and safety. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the importance of preserving and maintaining Egelman Reservoir to secure a reliable water supply in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing demand.

Year Completed

1901

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

ROSS VALLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

21.4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.