Devon Detention

TR DARBY CREEK· Chester, Pennsylvania· Built 1986· Earth· 8 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Private

Key Takeaway

Devon Detention is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1986 and is 40 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 8 ft (taller than 2.3% in PA)
Dam Length500 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage15 acre-ft
Normal Storage1 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1986 (40 years old)
NID IDPA01424

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 11, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

WAYNESBROOKE HOMEOWNERS ASOCIATION

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Devon Detention?

Devon Detention is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Devon Detention?

Devon Detention is owned by WAYNESBROOKE HOMEOWNERS ASOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Devon Detention built?

Devon Detention was completed in 1986, making it 40 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Devon Detention?

Devon Detention serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Devon Detention?

Devon Detention has a dam height of 8 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Devon Detention last inspected?

Devon Detention was last inspected on April 11, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.