Lake Bonin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Lake Bonin, located in Orwell Township, Pennsylvania, is a private recreational reservoir created by an Earth-type dam in 1972.


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Summary

With a height of 25 feet and a length of 525 feet, this reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 360 acre-feet and a normal storage of 235 acre-feet. Serving as a popular spot for water enthusiasts, the lake covers a surface area of 28 acres and is fed by TR Jerome Creek.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Lake Bonin is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. The reservoir poses a risk, but no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans have been documented as of now.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Bonin offers a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. From its design as a recreational facility to its role in local water supply and flood control, this reservoir showcases the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship. As efforts to mitigate risks and improve safety continue, Lake Bonin remains a valuable asset for both recreation and water resource management in Bradford County, Pennsylvania.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR JEROME CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Drainage Area

0.43

Nid Storage

360

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.