Opossum Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Opossum Lake, located in Cumberland, Pennsylvania, is a state-owned reservoir that serves as a valuable water resource for the region.


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Summary

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this earth dam structure was completed in 1961 and stands at a height of 38 feet with a length of 310 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 1090 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 690 acre-feet, Opossum Lake covers a surface area of 59 acres and drains a watershed area of 4.83 square miles.

Primarily used for recreation, Opossum Lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking in a scenic natural setting. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and integrity. The reservoir is a vital resource for the community, offering both recreational enjoyment and important water storage capabilities for various uses. With its picturesque location in Lower Frankford Township and proximity to Opossum Creek, this dam serves as a key asset in the region's water management infrastructure.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, Opossum Lake plays a critical role in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges. Its regulated state jurisdiction and robust inspection protocols underscore the commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of this important water infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Opossum Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and recreational enjoyment in the management of water resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

OPOSSUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

59

Drainage Area

4.83

Nid Storage

1090

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.