Dutch Fork Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dutch Fork is a state-owned dam located in Donegal Township, Pennsylvania, along the Dutch Fork Buffalo Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a height of 42 feet and a length of 460 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1,850 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 91 acres, drawing water from a drainage area of 17.8 square miles.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Dutch Fork is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Its hazard potential is rated as high, but its condition assessment is satisfactory as of the last inspection in March 2021. The dam has undergone modifications in 2012 to improve its hydraulic capabilities, ensuring its continued safety and functionality for both recreational use and water supply purposes in the region.

With its picturesque location and important role in water resource management, Dutch Fork stands as a vital infrastructure in Washington County, Pennsylvania. As a key site along the Dutch Fork Buffalo Creek, this dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to the storage and distribution of water for the surrounding area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Dutch Fork to be a fascinating example of man-made structures working harmoniously with nature to meet the needs of the community while ensuring safety and sustainability for the future.

Years Modified

2012 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

DUTCH FORK BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

91

Drainage Area

17.8

Nid Storage

1850

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.