Cresson Lakes Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cresson Lakes, located in Cambria, Pennsylvania, is a private water resource managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1913, serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 563 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 30 acres, drawing water from Clearfield Creek.

Despite its low hazard potential, with a condition assessment marked as "Not Rated," Cresson Lakes has not been recently inspected since July 2017. The dam is regulated by the state and subject to regular inspection, enforcement, and permitting by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The surrounding area, in Allegheny Township, enjoys the benefits of this earth dam, which helps manage water levels and provides recreational opportunities for nearby residents and visitors.

As a key structure in the regional water management system, Cresson Lakes contributes to the overall water resource management in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing role in providing recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a vital component in the local ecosystem and a valuable resource for both humans and wildlife. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the careful balance of regulation, maintenance, and enjoyment that Cresson Lakes offers to the community.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

563

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

CLEARFIELD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

104

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.