Benchley Pond Reservoir Report

Nearby: Wood Wanzo

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Benchley Pond, located in Rome Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

This earth dam structure, standing at 8 feet in height, serves as an outlet pond with a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet for a drainage area of 0.5 square miles. Despite its low hazard potential, the pond has not been rated for its condition and was last inspected in June 2015.

The primary purpose of Benchley Pond is identified as "Other," with limited information available on its construction year and specific details such as spillway type, discharge capacity, or surface area. Although the dam is not associated with the US Army Corps of Engineers, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring compliance with safety standards. With the dam's condition assessment currently listed as "Not Rated," further evaluation and potential risk management measures may be necessary to maintain the structural integrity and functionality of the pond.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Benchley Pond offers a unique case study in private dam ownership and state jurisdiction over water infrastructure. With its location in Bradford County, Pennsylvania, this pond serves as a vital component in local water management and conservation efforts. Monitoring changes in its condition, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness will be essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this water resource amidst evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

OUTLET POND

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

109

Hazard Potential

Low

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.