Bear Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bear Pond, located in Fairfield Township, Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned recreational water resource regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

The dam at Bear Pond is of earth construction type with a height of 15 feet and a length of 325 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is considered low, it is still subject to regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Situated along Freeman Run, Bear Pond offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Despite its relatively modest size, the pond serves as an important water source for the local ecosystem and contributes to the overall water resources of the area. With its scenic location and diverse wildlife, Bear Pond is a valuable asset for both the community and the environment, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship and conservation efforts to protect such natural habitats.

As a privately owned water resource, Bear Pond plays a significant role in providing recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital component of the local watershed. With its low hazard potential and regulatory oversight, the pond serves as a model for sustainable management practices that balance the needs of human recreation with the protection of natural ecosystems. By ensuring the continued safety and integrity of Bear Pond, stakeholders can preserve this valuable resource for future generations of water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

FREEMAN RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

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.