Nesbitt Reservoir | Wilkes Barre

The Nesbitt Reservoir is a vital water supply reservoir located in Spring Brook Township, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. It plays an important role in providing fresh drinking water to tens of thousands of residents in the region, while also being a key feature in local environmental management.

Location and Physical Characteristics

Geographical Setting: The reservoir is situated along Pennsylvania Route 502 in Spring Brook Township, northeast of Scranton. It rests at an elevation of approximately 1,112 feet (339 meters) above sea level.

Water Source: Nesbitt Reservoir is primarily fed by Spring Brook, the second-largest tributary of the Lackawanna River, which flows into the Susquehanna River Basin.

Size and Capacity: The reservoir holds about 1.3 billion gallons of water, making it one of the larger reservoirs in the area for municipal water supply.

Dam Structure: The reservoir is formed by a stone dam approximately 101 feet high and 780 feet long, which was engineered to ensure water retention and safety.

Purpose and Management

Primary Function: Nesbitt Reservoir serves as a major drinking water source for roughly 75,000 residents in the surrounding communities, including parts of Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties.

Ownership: It is owned and operated by Pennsylvania American Water Company (PAWC), a private utility company responsible for water treatment, distribution, and infrastructure upkeep.

Upgrades and Safety: In 2012, a $27.4 million rehabilitation project was completed to improve the dam’s safety, structural integrity, and compliance with Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulations. These upgrades included reinforcing the dam, improving spillways, and enhancing monitoring systems.

Environmental and Recreational Aspects

Natural Surroundings: The reservoir is surrounded by forested land that supports a variety of wildlife such as deer, birds, and aquatic species. The area historically featured nature trails, offering scenic views of creeks, waterfalls, and the reservoir itself.

Fishing: The reservoir is home to various freshwater fish species including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, common carp, and spotted bass. Fishing is allowed with appropriate permits issued by Pennsylvania American Water.

Recreational Use: While the reservoir was once known for activities like whitewater rafting (particularly from Nesbitt to nearby Moosic), current public recreational access is limited due to its status as a drinking water supply source.

Access Restrictions: To protect water quality, the reservoir area is not generally open to the public for hiking, boating, or swimming. Controlled access is maintained to prevent contamination.

Importance and Community Impact

Nesbitt Reservoir is a critical component of the region’s water infrastructure, ensuring a safe and reliable supply of potable water.

Its management balances environmental conservation with the needs of a growing population.

The reservoir’s health and security are vital for both human consumption and maintaining regional ecosystems.

Summary

Nesbitt Reservoir is more than just a body of water; it is a carefully managed resource that supports thousands of residents with clean water, preserves natural habitats, and contributes to local environmental stability. Though recreational use is limited to safeguard water quality, the reservoir remains an important feature of northeastern Pennsylvania’s natural and infrastructural landscape.