Beaver Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Beaver Lake in Pennsylvania is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1919 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 9 feet and a length of 179 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 370 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 297 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 70 acres and is fed by the Beaver Run.

Despite its recreational appeal, Beaver Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment, making it a critical water resource in need of attention and maintenance. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection regulates the dam, ensuring state inspection and enforcement to mitigate any potential risks associated with its deteriorating state. With a drainage area of 2.96 square miles, the lake serves as an important water source in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining Beaver Lake's structural integrity and emergency preparedness is crucial for the safety of nearby communities and the preservation of its recreational and ecological values. With its historical significance dating back over a century, the lake's risk management measures and hazard mitigation efforts will be essential in safeguarding this natural gem for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

179

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

BEAVER RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

70

Drainage Area

2.96

Nid Storage

370

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.