Lake Oneida Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Oneida, located in Oakland Township, Pennsylvania, is a private water supply reservoir regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, completed in 1918, stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 830 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 3,350 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 1,762 acre-feet and a surface area of 155 acres, Lake Oneida draws its water supply from the Connoquenessing Creek, serving as a vital resource for the local community.

The dam at Lake Oneida has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, having undergone structural modifications in 2006. The last inspection in June 2020 deemed the dam to be in compliance with safety standards, with an inspection frequency of once a year. While an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is not currently prepared, the reservoir's risk assessment and management measures are yet to be determined. The dam's location within Butler, Pennsylvania, highlights its importance in water resource management and the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding areas.

As climate change impacts water resources, the significance of dams like Lake Oneida in ensuring water supply and flood control cannot be overstated. With its historical significance dating back over a century, Lake Oneida stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and managing water resources. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the infrastructure and regulatory aspects of Lake Oneida provides valuable insights into the intersection of environmental conservation and sustainable water management in the face of a changing climate.

Years Modified

2006 - Structural

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

830

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

CONNOQUENESSING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

155

Drainage Area

16.6

Nid Storage

3350

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.