Griffis Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Griffis is a private recreational dam in Forest Lake Township, Pennsylvania, regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at 17 feet tall and spans 300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. Situated on the TR Middle Branch Wyalusing Creek, Griffis serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a drainage area of 0.72 square miles.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Griffis has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with inspections conducted every two years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's purpose primarily focuses on recreation, offering a surface area of 5 acres for outdoor activities. Located within the Susquehanna County, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its historical significance and environmental impact, Griffis stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in Pennsylvania.

As a key feature of the Baltimore District, Griffis exemplifies the importance of state-regulated infrastructure in safeguarding communities against potential hazards. Its satisfactory condition and regulatory compliance highlight the ongoing commitment to maintaining the dam's safety and operational efficiency. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Griffis not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to flood control and water supply management in the Susquehanna area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Griffis is essential in promoting sustainable practices and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR MIDDLE BR WYALUSING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.72

Nid Storage

110

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.