Middle West Deer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Middle West Deer, also known as West Deer Lakes, is a local government-owned dam in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, located in West Deer Township, regulates TR Little Deer Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Standing at a height of 16 feet and a length of 240 feet, Middle West Deer has a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, making it a significant resource for water management in the area.

Despite its recreational focus, the dam poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. The last inspection, conducted in October 2020, deemed the dam's condition satisfactory. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unclear. With its strategic location and importance for water resource management, Middle West Deer serves as a vital infrastructure for both recreational and environmental purposes in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area can appreciate Middle West Deer for its role in regulating water flow and providing recreational opportunities. As a locally owned dam with state oversight, its significance lies in its ability to balance the needs of the community while ensuring proper water management practices are maintained. With its high hazard potential, ongoing inspections, and satisfactory condition, Middle West Deer stands as a crucial asset in the sustainable development and preservation of water resources in Allegheny, Pennsylvania.

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR LITTLE DEER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

41

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.