Browns Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Browns Lake in Tioga, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1964 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at 13 feet high and spans 840 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a capacity of 84 acre-feet. Situated in Delmar Township, the lake is part of the WTRSHD West Branch Stony Fork watershed and offers a serene setting for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Browns Lake is regulated and inspected to ensure safety and compliance with state standards. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam is regularly monitored with an inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite the lack of a formal emergency action plan, the lake remains a popular destination for recreation enthusiasts in the region, offering a tranquil escape surrounded by nature.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the peaceful charm of Browns Lake, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Tioga County. As a vital part of the local ecosystem, the lake provides opportunities for outdoor recreation while serving as a regulated water resource managed by state authorities. With its low hazard potential and historical significance dating back to the 1960s, Browns Lake invites visitors to enjoy its beauty and tranquility while contributing to the conservation efforts of Pennsylvania's waterways.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WTRSHD WEST BRANCH STONY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

84

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.