Lawson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oakwood Lake Stevens Lake
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Lawson, a private water resource in Pennsylvania, was designed by the USDA NRCS in 1970 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet, with a structural height of 28 feet and a length of 1030 feet. It has a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres, serving as a habitat for fish and wildlife while also offering recreational opportunities.
Located in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania, Lawson is regulated by the USDA NRCS and funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite its condition assessment being marked as "Not Available," Lawson remains a valuable asset for the local community, providing both environmental benefits and leisure activities.
As a key feature in the Baltimore District, Lawson contributes to water resource management in the area, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam embodies a harmonious blend of infrastructure and natural surroundings. Water and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the ecological significance and recreational value that Lawson brings to the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management practices.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1030 |
Dam Height |
26 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
0.43 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Susquehanna River At Meshoppen
|
6660cfs |
Tunkhannock Creek Near Tunkhannock
|
1100cfs |
Lackawanna River At Old Forge
|
684cfs |
Lackawanna R Bl Leggetts Creek At Scranton
|
353cfs |
Susquehanna River At Towanda
|
5000cfs |
Towanda Creek Near Monroeton
|
889cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lawson
Meshoppen