Belmont Raw Water Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Belmont Raw Water Basin, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a critical water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1901, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 1200 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 220 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to provide water supply to the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 145 acre-feet and a surface area of 10.65 acres.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Belmont Raw Water Basin is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition assessment is currently rated as fair. The last inspection date was in August 2020, with a scheduled inspection frequency of once per year. Despite the potential risks, the dam continues to serve as a crucial water resource in the watershed of the Schuylkill River, supporting the community's water needs.

With its historical significance and vital role in water supply management, Belmont Raw Water Basin stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and regulation of such structures are essential for ensuring the resilience of our water systems. Belmont Raw Water Basin serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect and manage our precious water resources in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1901

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

WTRSHD SCHUYLKILL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.65

Nid Storage

220

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.