Lower West Deer Lake, located in West Deer Township, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, is a picturesque recreational dam situated along the TR Little Deer Creek. Owned and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans a length of 285 feet, with a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. The dam, primarily used for recreation, covers a surface area of 2.36 acres and has a drainage area of 0.6 square miles.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Lower West Deer Lake poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection was conducted in October 2020, with an inspection frequency of once a year. With a spillway width of 159 feet and no associated locks, the dam serves as a vital recreational resource while also necessitating stringent risk management measures to ensure public safety.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower West Deer Lake presents a fascinating study in balancing recreational benefits with the potential risks associated with high-hazard dams. As a regulated and state-jurisdictional structure, this dam serves as a focal point for environmental stewardship and water management practices in the region, reflecting the delicate interplay between human enjoyment of natural resources and the imperative of safeguarding against potential hazards.