Deer Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Lake, located in Wharton Township, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned water resource with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1906, stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 547 feet, creating a surface area of 60 acres. With a normal storage capacity of 359 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 543 acre-feet, Deer Lake offers a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Deer Lake is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. Despite having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. The surrounding area, including the Meadow Run stream, adds to the picturesque beauty of Deer Lake and provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

As a recreational haven in the heart of Pennsylvania, Deer Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation against the backdrop of a historic earth dam. With its rich history dating back over a century, Deer Lake continues to be a popular destination for outdoor recreation, drawing visitors who seek to enjoy the beauty of nature and partake in water-based activities. The dedication to maintaining the dam's safety and compliance with regulations ensures that this idyllic spot remains a cherished retreat for both locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit for those passionate about water resources and climate conservation.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

547

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

MEADOW RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Drainage Area

4.93

Nid Storage

543

Hazard Potential

High

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.