Tamarack Lake B (Pa-461b) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Tamarack Lake B (Pa-461b) in Crawford, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1962 for flood risk reduction along the Mud Run river.


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Summary

With a dam height of 21 feet and a length of 425 feet, the reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 8,150 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 3,850 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 556 acres. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and recreation, making it a valuable resource for both environmental protection and public enjoyment.

Despite its high hazard potential, Tamarack Lake B is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With its strategic location in East Fairfield Township and its critical role in flood control, Tamarack Lake B stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in Pennsylvania, providing a vital link between water conservation, recreation, and disaster prevention in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Tamarack Lake B as a prime example of effective dam infrastructure designed to balance flood protection with recreational opportunities. The reservoir's history of modifications and ongoing maintenance demonstrate a commitment to ensuring public safety and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns. As a state-regulated facility with a significant impact on the local ecosystem and community, Tamarack Lake B serves as a model for sustainable water management practices that prioritize both human needs and natural resource conservation.

Years Modified

1999 - Hydraulic, 2004 - Other

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

MUD RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

556

Drainage Area

4.99

Nid Storage

8150

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.