Stairway Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Stairway Lake, located in Pike, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated recreational water resource with a dam completed in 1955.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a dam height of 12 feet and a length of 675 feet, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of recreation and has a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Situated in Westfall Township and managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Stairway Lake offers a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, making it a serene destination for water and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Stairway Lake is currently marked as "Not Rated", with inspection frequency set at 5 years. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparation are not specified in the data, suggesting potential areas for improvement in terms of safety measures. Stairway Lake remains a captivating site for outdoor recreation and water resource exploration, with the Delaware River flowing nearby and the picturesque landscape offering a serene backdrop for visitors seeking to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices.

With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Stairway Lake stands as a testament to the enduring value of water resource development for recreational purposes in Pennsylvania. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the responsible management and monitoring of dams like Stairway Lake are crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of these vital water resources for future generations. Enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience will find Stairway Lake to be a fascinating case study in the ongoing efforts to balance recreational enjoyment with environmental conservation and stewardship.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

675

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR DELAWARE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.