Laurel Ridge Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Ridge Lake, located in Somerset Township, Pennsylvania, is a private water resource regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall, with a length of 935 feet and a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet. Primarily serving as a recreational area, the lake covers 14.5 acres and draws water from Laurel Hill Creek.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, Laurel Ridge Lake maintains a safe environment for visitors to enjoy various outdoor activities. The dam is inspected every five years, with the last assessment conducted in July 2018. Despite its recreational focus, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment details remain unspecified, suggesting room for improvement in emergency preparedness measures.

Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Somerset, Pennsylvania, Laurel Ridge Lake offers a tranquil setting for water and climate enthusiasts to appreciate. As a privately owned water resource, it serves as a key location for recreational purposes, inviting visitors to explore the natural charm of the area. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, the lake continues to be a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

935

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

LAUREL HILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.5

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

143

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.