Shawnee Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shawnee Lake, located in Bedford, Pennsylvania, is a state-owned reservoir managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

Built in 1950 for flood risk reduction, this earth dam stands at 56 feet tall and spans 900 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 25,250 acre-feet. The lake also serves as a recreational area, offering a surface area of 450 acres for outdoor activities.

Despite its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Shawnee Lake also provides opportunities for recreation, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. With a fair condition assessment and a high hazard potential, the dam is closely monitored by state regulators, who conduct regular inspections to ensure its safety. The reservoir is situated in Napier Township, along the TR RAYSTOWN BR JUNIATA RIVER, and falls under the jurisdiction of the Pittsburgh District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Shawnee Lake remains an essential water resource in Pennsylvania, offering both flood protection and recreational opportunities to the local community. As a state-regulated facility with a significant hazard potential, the reservoir plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. With its picturesque surroundings and diverse functions, Shawnee Lake continues to be a valuable asset for residents and visitors alike.

Years Modified

2007 - Other

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

TR RAYSTOWN BR JUNIATA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

450

Drainage Area

37.5

Nid Storage

25250

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

56
       
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.