Belmont Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Belmont Lake, located in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, is a state-owned reservoir on the West Branch Lackawaxen River, originally completed in 1830 for recreational and water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a dam height of 27.5 feet and a length of 600 feet, the lake has a storage capacity of 3,168 acre-feet and a surface area of 172 acres. Despite its historical significance, Belmont Lake is currently classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, making it a site of potential concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Belmont Lake is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. However, the dam's poor condition raises the need for regular monitoring and potential risk management measures to mitigate any hazards. The lake's location in Mount Pleasant Township adds to its scenic charm, attracting visitors for recreational activities while also highlighting the importance of maintaining its infrastructure for both safety and environmental sustainability.

As a part of the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Belmont Lake plays a crucial role in water management and recreational opportunities in the region. With its historical significance and potential risks, there is a growing need for continued assessment, maintenance, and potential upgrades to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this valuable water resource. For water enthusiasts and climate advocates, Belmont Lake serves as both a source of enjoyment and a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1830

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

27.5

River Or Stream

WEST BRANCH LACKAWAXEN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

172

Drainage Area

4.2

Nid Storage

3168

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.