Oakwood Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Oakwood Lake is a private water resource located in Tunkhannock Township, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

This recreational lake, completed in 1947, boasts a dam height of 12 feet and a length of 120 feet, providing a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Situated on Swale Brook, Oakwood Lake covers a surface area of 20 acres and serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based recreational activities.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Oakwood Lake is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with a recent inspection conducted in January 2021. The lake's purpose is primarily for recreation, offering visitors a serene environment to enjoy water-based activities while surrounded by the natural beauty of Wyoming County, Pennsylvania.

Enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate will find Oakwood Lake to be a captivating destination worth exploring. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century and its ongoing management by state regulatory agencies, this Earth-type dam presents a unique opportunity to learn about the balance between water conservation, recreational use, and environmental protection in the region. Whether you're interested in the engineering aspects of dam construction or simply looking for a scenic spot to relax by the water, Oakwood Lake offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy while appreciating the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SWALE BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

0.48

Nid Storage

80

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.