Lauer Run Detention Basin

LAUER RUN· Berks, Pennsylvania· Built 1991· Earth· 9 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lauer Run Detention Basin is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1991 and is 35 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 9 ft (taller than 5.5% in PA)
Dam Length550 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage18 acre-ft
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1991 (35 years old)
NID IDPA01495

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: July 18, 2017
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

BOROUGH OF WYOMISSING

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lauer Run Detention Basin?

Lauer Run Detention Basin 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 Lauer Run Detention Basin?

Lauer Run Detention Basin is owned by BOROUGH OF WYOMISSING (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lauer Run Detention Basin built?

Lauer Run Detention Basin was completed in 1991, making it 35 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 Lauer Run Detention Basin?

Lauer Run Detention Basin 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 Lauer Run Detention Basin?

Lauer Run Detention Basin has a dam height of 9 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 Lauer Run Detention Basin last inspected?

Lauer Run Detention Basin was last inspected on July 18, 2017. 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.