Bear Creek Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Bear Creek Lake is a picturesque reservoir located in Luzerne, Pennsylvania, created in 1915 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, constructed of Roller-Compacted Concrete with a height of 17 feet and a length of 325 feet, holds a storage capacity of 765 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 80 acres and is fed by the Bear Creek stream, providing a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bear Creek Lake is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite a high hazard potential due to its size and location, the dam is assessed as satisfactory in condition, with a moderate risk level. Emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks, although details on their preparation and guidelines adherence are not specified.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bear Creek Lake offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty. As a privately owned recreational facility, the lake serves as a vital resource for the local community while maintaining a balance between leisure and environmental conservation. Whether enjoying a peaceful day by the water or exploring the surrounding Bear Creek Township, visitors can experience firsthand the importance of responsible water management in maintaining a sustainable ecosystem.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Roller-Compacted Concrete

Surface Area

80

Drainage Area

35.2

Nid Storage

765

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.