Witmer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Witmer, located in Hamilton Township, Pennsylvania, is a private Earth dam constructed in 1941 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This structure spans 270 feet in length and stands at a height of 9 feet, providing a storage capacity of 61 cubic acre-feet. Situated on Cherry Creek, Witmer serves as a recreational reservoir with a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 1.1 square miles.

Managed and regulated by the by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Witmer has been classified as having a low hazard potential with its condition yet to be rated. The dam undergoes inspections every five years, with its last assessment conducted in October 2020. Despite its age, Witmer continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while remaining a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.

With its proximity to Monroe, Pennsylvania, Witmer offers a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. The dam's presence on Cherry Creek not only enhances the surrounding natural landscape but also underscores the importance of responsible water resource management in the region. As a historical landmark with a rich legacy dating back to the early 20th century, Witmer stands as a testament to the enduring connection between water resources and environmental sustainability in the Keystone State.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

CHERRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

61

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.