Wildwood Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Wildwood Lake, located in Dauphin, Pennsylvania, is a local government-owned dam on Paxton Creek that serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1908, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 1300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 790 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 614 acre-feet and a surface area of 46 acres, Wildwood Lake plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the area.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Wildwood Lake is state-regulated, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being assessed as having a low hazard potential and not rated for condition assessment, the dam is inspected every five years to maintain its operational readiness. As a key component in the flood risk reduction strategy for Harrisburg City, Wildwood Lake remains a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

Its strategic location, close to the urban center, and its connection to the Baltimore District of the USACE add to the significance of Wildwood Lake in the overall water resource management framework. With a rich history dating back over a century, this dam continues to be a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and community resilience in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the role of Wildwood Lake in safeguarding against flooding and ensuring water security is more critical than ever, making it a site of interest for those passionate about sustainable water resource management.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

PAXTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Drainage Area

18.1

Nid Storage

790

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.