Little Buffalo Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Little Buffalo Creek is a state-regulated water resource located in Perry, Pennsylvania, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1970, is an earth structure with a height of 52 feet and a length of 1750 feet, providing storage of up to 4020 acre-feet of water. The drainage area of 13.4 square miles ensures a steady flow into the creek, supporting the surface area of 87 acres for various recreational activities.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in December 2020. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the dam, ensuring its safety and functionality for the surrounding community. With its strategic location in Centre Township and the Buffalo District, Little Buffalo Creek serves as a vital water resource for both recreational enjoyment and environmental sustainability, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to appreciate its beauty and significance in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1750

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

LITTLE BUFFALO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

87

Drainage Area

13.4

Nid Storage

4020

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

52
       
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.