Totem Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ballibay Mill Creek
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Totem Lake, located in Herrick Township, Bradford County, Pennsylvania, is a rockfill dam built in 1919 for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at 12 feet high and stretches 151 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 132 acre-feet and a surface area of 34 acres. It is situated on Camps Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. However, recent data shows that the dam has a high hazard potential and is in poor condition, indicating a need for maintenance and repair to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Despite its deteriorating condition, Totem Lake remains a popular spot for outdoor recreation in the area. The dam offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. As a privately owned structure, it is essential for the owner to work closely with regulatory agencies to address any safety concerns and implement necessary improvements to mitigate risks associated with its operation.
With the potential risks associated with its current state, stakeholders and authorities need to prioritize the maintenance and inspection of Totem Lake to prevent any potential disasters. By investing in the necessary repairs and upgrades, this iconic recreational spot can continue to provide enjoyment for visitors while safeguarding the surrounding environment and communities against any potential water resource and climate-related threats.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
151 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
CAMPS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
34 |
Drainage Area |
1.1 |
Nid Storage |
132 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Susquehanna River At Towanda
|
10500cfs |
Towanda Creek Near Monroeton
|
189cfs |
Susquehanna River At Meshoppen
|
11400cfs |
Wappasening Creek Near Windham Center
|
51cfs |
Towanda Creek Near Franklindale
|
50cfs |
Choconut Creek Near Choconut
|
21cfs |
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.
Totem Lake
Terrytown