Lofty Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Lofty Reservoir is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1897 and is 129 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 65% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 431 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 276 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1897 (129 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00681 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
MAHANOY TOWNSHIP AUTHORITY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lower Mount Pleasant
Luzerne, PA
High Hazard 28 ftNeifert Creek (Pa-422a)
Schuylkill, PA
High Hazard 55 ftUpper Mount Pleasant
Luzerne, PA
High Hazard 20 ftLittle Schuylkill River (Pa-422)
Schuylkill, PA
High Hazard 87 ftStill Creek
Schuylkill, PA
High Hazard 86 ftHosensock (Pa-424)
Schuylkill, PA
High Hazard 35 ftLakewood
Schuylkill, PA
Low Hazard 14 ftHumboldt Reservoir
Luzerne, PA
Significant Hazard 41 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lofty Reservoir?
Lofty 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 Lofty Reservoir?
Lofty Reservoir is owned by MAHANOY TOWNSHIP AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lofty Reservoir built?
Lofty Reservoir was completed in 1897, making it 129 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 Lofty Reservoir?
Lofty 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 Lofty Reservoir?
Lofty Reservoir has a dam height of 30 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 Lofty Reservoir last inspected?
Lofty Reservoir was last inspected on November 5, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.