Nesbitt

SPRING BROOK· Lackawanna, Pennsylvania· Built 1903· Stone· 101 ft tall
High Hazard Water Supply Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Nesbitt is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 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 101 ft (taller than 96.3% in PA)
Dam Length780 ft
Dam TypeStone
Max Storage5.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage3.8K acre-ft
Surface Area116 acres
Drainage Area37 sq mi
Year Completed1903 (123 years old)
NID IDPA00449

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 16, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

PA AMERICAN WATER COMPANY

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Nesbitt?

Nesbitt 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 Nesbitt?

Nesbitt is owned by PA AMERICAN WATER COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Nesbitt built?

Nesbitt was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Nesbitt?

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

How tall is Nesbitt?

Nesbitt has a dam height of 101 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 Nesbitt last inspected?

Nesbitt was last inspected on September 16, 2020. 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.