Kauffman Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Kauffman Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1896 and is 130 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 68 ft (taller than 91.1% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 573 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 413 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 319 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1896 (130 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00691 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
SCHUYLKILL COUNTY MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Kauffman Reservoir?
Kauffman Reservoir is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Kauffman Reservoir?
Kauffman Reservoir is owned by SCHUYLKILL COUNTY MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kauffman Reservoir built?
Kauffman Reservoir was completed in 1896, making it 130 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 Kauffman Reservoir?
Kauffman 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 Kauffman Reservoir?
Kauffman Reservoir has a dam height of 68 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 Kauffman Reservoir last inspected?
Kauffman Reservoir was last inspected on December 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.