Muddy Run East Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Muddy Run East Dike, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a rockfill dam built by the Philadelphia Electric Company in 1967 for hydroelectric purposes on the Susquehanna River.


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Summary

Standing at 12 feet high and stretching 800 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 60,500 acre-feet and covers an area of 1,000 acres. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is inspected every three years by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Although not state-regulated, Muddy Run East Dike plays a crucial role in managing water resources and generating hydroelectric power in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and proximity to the Cold Cabin Boat Launch make it a notable feature along the Susquehanna River. With its history of construction and maintenance overseen by federal agencies, the dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between water resource management, climate considerations, and energy production in Pennsylvania.

As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, Muddy Run East Dike highlights the importance of balancing environmental concerns with energy needs. With its design focused on hydroelectric power generation, the dam showcases the innovation and technical expertise required to harness natural resources sustainably. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Muddy Run East Dike will play an increasingly vital role in ensuring water security and clean energy production for years to come.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Susquehanna River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1000

Drainage Area

9.2

Nid Storage

60500

Hazard Potential

Low

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.