Dutch Fork is a state-owned dam located in Donegal Township, Pennsylvania, along the Dutch Fork Buffalo Creek. Built in 1959, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a height of 42 feet and a length of 460 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1,850 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 91 acres, drawing water from a drainage area of 17.8 square miles.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Dutch Fork is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Its hazard potential is rated as high, but its condition assessment is satisfactory as of the last inspection in March 2021. The dam has undergone modifications in 2012 to improve its hydraulic capabilities, ensuring its continued safety and functionality for both recreational use and water supply purposes in the region.

With its picturesque location and important role in water resource management, Dutch Fork stands as a vital infrastructure in Washington County, Pennsylvania. As a key site along the Dutch Fork Buffalo Creek, this dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to the storage and distribution of water for the surrounding area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Dutch Fork to be a fascinating example of man-made structures working harmoniously with nature to meet the needs of the community while ensuring safety and sustainability for the future.