Lake Sophia Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Sophia, located in Silver Lake Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

The earth dam, completed in 1957, stands at 30 feet high and spans 340 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 14 acres, Lake Sophia provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Lake Sophia is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with regular inspections to monitor its structural integrity. The reservoir's proximity to TR Choconut Creek adds to the ecosystem's biodiversity and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate can appreciate Lake Sophia for its recreational value, environmental significance, and regulatory oversight. As a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, the reservoir offers a serene retreat while also highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR CHOCONUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

166

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.