Wangaum Falls
Key Takeaway
Wangaum Falls is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 30 ft (taller than 65% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 784 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 169 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 33 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00141 |
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
WANGAUM FALLS ASSOCIATION
Private
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High Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wangaum Falls?
Wangaum Falls 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 Wangaum Falls?
Wangaum Falls is owned by WANGAUM FALLS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wangaum Falls built?
Wangaum Falls was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Wangaum Falls?
Wangaum Falls serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wangaum Falls?
Wangaum Falls 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 Wangaum Falls last inspected?
Wangaum Falls was last inspected on December 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.