Upper Silver Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Upper Silver Lake in Bucks, Pennsylvania is a privately owned reservoir regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this recreational dam stands at a height of 15.3 feet and spans 350 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a surface area of 9.5 acres, it serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the Lower Makefield Township.

Despite its age, Upper Silver Lake has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition according to its last inspection in June 2018. The dam, primarily constructed of earth with buttress core types, undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its safety and integrity. With a normal storage capacity of 38 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.2 square miles, the reservoir is a vital resource for both recreational and environmental purposes in the region.

Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Van Horn Creek, Upper Silver Lake offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Its historical significance, combined with its functional role in providing recreation and water storage, makes it a valuable asset in the landscape of Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

15.3

River Or Stream

VAN HORN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.5

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.