Bear Creek Lake
Key Takeaway
Bear Creek Lake is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1915 and is 111 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 35.6% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 325 ft |
| Dam Type | Roller-Compacted Concrete |
| Max Storage | 765 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 490 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 80 acres |
| Drainage Area | 35 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1915 (111 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00545 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
BEAR CREEK ASSOCIATION
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Bear Creek Lake?
Bear Creek Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bear Creek Lake?
Bear Creek Lake is owned by BEAR CREEK ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bear Creek Lake built?
Bear Creek Lake was completed in 1915, making it 111 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bear Creek Lake?
Bear Creek Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bear Creek Lake?
Bear Creek Lake has a dam height of 17 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bear Creek Lake last inspected?
Bear Creek Lake was last inspected on January 27, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.