The Francis E.
Wind
Humidity
Walter Dam - Saddle Dike, also known as Walter Dam, is a rockfill dam located in Luzerne, Pennsylvania, along the Lehigh River. Completed in 1961 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, its primary purpose is flood risk reduction. With a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a length of 1860 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 160,290 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 288 square miles.
The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and engaging with local emergency managers to ensure readiness for potential emergencies. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and functionality.
Despite the risk management measures in place, dams do not eliminate all flooding risks. Severe weather events can result in dam releases or overwhelm the system, potentially leading to issues. The US Army Corps of Engineers continues to update the emergency action plan for the Francis E. Walter Dam, working towards enhancing public awareness and preparedness for dam-related emergencies in the future.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
1860 |
River Or Stream |
LEHIGH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
80 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
288 |
Nid Storage |
160290 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lehigh Gorge Campground
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Camp Shehaqua
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Camp Daddy Allen
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Pennsylvania Youth Forestry Camp #2
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Hickory Run State Park
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Organized Group Tenting Area
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