Humboldt Reservoir

STONY CREEK· Luzerne, Pennsylvania· Built 1911· Earth· 41 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Humboldt Reservoir is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1911 and is 115 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 41 ft (taller than 78.3% in PA)
Dam Length974 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage549 acre-ft
Normal Storage442 acre-ft
Surface Area35 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1911 (115 years old)
NID IDPA00646

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: October 24, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

HAZLETON CITY AUTHORITY

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Humboldt Reservoir?

Humboldt Reservoir 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 Humboldt Reservoir?

Humboldt Reservoir is owned by HAZLETON CITY AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Humboldt Reservoir built?

Humboldt Reservoir was completed in 1911, making it 115 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 Humboldt Reservoir?

Humboldt Reservoir serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Humboldt Reservoir?

Humboldt Reservoir has a dam height of 41 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 Humboldt Reservoir last inspected?

Humboldt Reservoir was last inspected on October 24, 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.