Northmoreland Lake (Pa-117) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Northmoreland Lake (Pa-117) is a stunning recreational reservoir located in Allegheny Township, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1989 by the USDA NRCS, stands at 38 feet tall and spans 585 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 531 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 17 acres and is fed by the TR Pine Run river.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Northmoreland Lake is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a primary purpose of recreation, the lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, providing visitors with a safe and enjoyable experience.

For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Northmoreland Lake serves as a prime example of effective dam construction and operation. With its scenic surroundings and ample recreational opportunities, this reservoir showcases the importance of proper regulation and maintenance to ensure the safety and enjoyment of both locals and visitors alike. Explore Northmoreland Lake to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania's water resources while appreciating the efforts made to protect and preserve this valuable asset for future generations.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

585

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR PINE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

1.56

Nid Storage

531

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.