Perrins Marsh Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Perrins Marsh, also known as Brown Pond, is located in Northmoreland Township, Pennsylvania, and is a privately owned recreational area situated along Whitelock Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The earth dam, completed in 1919, stands at a height of 6 feet and has a length of 60 feet, creating a storage capacity of 470 acre-feet. With a surface area of 84 acres and a drainage area of 1.8 square miles, Perrins Marsh provides a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Perrins Marsh poses a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment rated as fair. The dam is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and maintenance. While the dam has not been modified over the years, regular inspections are conducted to mitigate risks and uphold the dam's integrity for public safety.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Perrins Marsh to be a captivating site, offering a glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural landscapes. As a privately owned recreational area with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, Perrins Marsh serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam management practices in safeguarding both the environment and local communities.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

6

River Or Stream

WHITELOCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

84

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

470

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

6
       
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.