Deer Valley Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Valley Lake, located in Elk Lick Township, Somerset, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned recreational lake with a dam completed in 1953.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The primary purpose of the Earth dam, which stands at a height of 22 feet and a length of 800 feet, is to provide recreational opportunities for visitors. With a normal storage capacity of 600 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1045 acre-feet, the lake covers a surface area of 120 acres and serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Deer Valley Lake is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment, with inspections conducted every five years to monitor its integrity. Although there are no spillways or outlet gates listed, the lake remains a stable and well-maintained recreational resource for the community.

While Deer Valley Lake does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan or risk assessment in place, its hazard potential is considered low, providing a sense of security for those who frequent the area. With its picturesque setting along Cove Run and ample recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and hiking, Deer Valley Lake continues to be a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy the beauty of nature in Somerset, Pennsylvania.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

COVE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

120

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1045

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.