Chester Co. Prison Storage Lagoon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chester Co.


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Summary

Prison Storage Lagoon is a significant water resource in Chester, Pennsylvania, owned by the local government and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. This earth dam structure, standing at 34 feet high and spanning 1604 feet in length, serves as a storage facility within the watershed of Pocopson Creek. With a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, this lagoon plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections, the dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Its last inspection was conducted in August 2016, with a scheduled frequency of every 2 years. The emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps for the dam are currently unspecified, indicating a potential area for further development and preparedness in case of emergencies. The lagoon's proximity to Pocopson Township further emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

Overall, Chester Co. Prison Storage Lagoon is a vital infrastructure within the water resource system of Chester County. With its primary purpose listed as 'Other,' this dam structure serves a critical function in water storage and management. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring facilities like this lagoon are essential for sustainable water resource management and disaster preparedness in the region.

Dam Length

1604

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

WTRSHD POCOPSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.