Chain Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Chain is a state-owned dam located in Palmer Township, Northampton County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

It is situated on the Lehigh River and is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The primary purpose of Chain is for recreation, with a dam height of 20 feet and a length of 700 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1197 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 300 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, Chain has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in November 2020. The dam has a regular inspection frequency of 5 years to ensure its safety and functionality. The surrounding area is at a low risk of inundation, and while an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is not currently prepared, the dam meets regulatory guidelines for state inspection, enforcement, and permitting.

Located within the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Chain is a vital infrastructure for water resource management and recreation in the region. As a stone dam with a buttress core type, it provides essential flood control and water supply benefits to the community. With its impressive storage capacity and recreational opportunities, Chain is a valuable asset in ensuring water resource sustainability and climate resiliency in Pennsylvania.

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

LEHIGH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

300

Drainage Area

1360

Nid Storage

1197

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.