Penallen, a privately owned dam located in Horsham Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the TR Pennypack Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 11.5 feet and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment, Penallen is classified as having a significant hazard potential, prompting a biennial inspection schedule since its last assessment in 2012.
Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Penallen is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and public safety. The dam has undergone modifications in 2010 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities, contributing to its ongoing flood risk reduction efforts. Additionally, Penallen falls under the jurisdiction of the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, although it is not directly owned or funded by federal agencies.
With its strategic location and vital purpose in mitigating flooding risks, Penallen serves as a key component in protecting the surrounding community and environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Penallen are essential in safeguarding against potential disasters and ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in the face of a changing climate.
Years Modified |
2010 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
11.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR PENNYPACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |