Queen Lane Raw Water Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Queen Lane Raw Water Basin in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a critical piece of infrastructure for water supply in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands 50 feet tall and spans 2800 feet, with a storage capacity of 540 acre-feet. Located in the watershed of the Schuylkill River, this dam serves as a primary source of raw water for the area, with a normal storage capacity of 500 acre-feet.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the Queen Lane Raw Water Basin is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in fair condition with regular inspections conducted to monitor its structural integrity. As a vital component of the local water supply system, maintaining the Queen Lane Raw Water Basin is crucial for safeguarding the region's water resources and resilience to changing climate conditions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and ongoing management of the Queen Lane Raw Water Basin, which plays a key role in providing reliable water supply for the Philadelphia area. With its strategic location in the watershed of the Schuylkill River and its substantial storage capacity, this earth dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure that is closely monitored and regulated by state authorities. As concerns about water scarcity and climate change continue to grow, ensuring the safety and functionality of facilities like the Queen Lane Raw Water Basin is essential for meeting the water needs of the community and adapting to a changing environment.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

2800

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

WTRSHD SCHUYLKILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Nid Storage

540

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
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.