Hawk Mountain Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hawk Mountain, located in Wayne Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned dam on the Lower Little Swatara Creek that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1978, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and is 788 feet long, with a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet. The dam has a fair condition assessment as of its last inspection in November 2020, with a hazard potential rated as high.

Despite its fair condition, Hawk Mountain is regulated and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that it meets state safety standards. The dam underwent modifications in 2010 to address foundation issues, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its integrity. With its picturesque location and surrounding natural beauty, Hawk Mountain offers water resource and climate enthusiasts a unique opportunity to enjoy outdoor recreation while appreciating the importance of responsible dam management in safeguarding water resources.

Years Modified

2010 - Foundation

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

788

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

LOWER LITTLE SWATARA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

147

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.