Lewis Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lewis Lake, located in Herrick Township, Pennsylvania, is a private water resource regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, completed in 1835, serves primarily for recreation purposes and has a maximum storage capacity of 977 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 737 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 49 acres, the dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 186 feet in length.

The dam's high hazard potential is mitigated by its satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections, with the most recent one conducted in November 2020. Despite being unlisted in terms of foundations, Lewis Lake dam has a history dating back almost two centuries, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding Fiddle Lake Creek and its 6.52 square miles of drainage area. With its historical significance and recreational value, Lewis Lake stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources across the globe, Lewis Lake serves as a reminder of the need for effective regulatory agencies and enforcement measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of dams and reservoirs. With its location in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, Lewis Lake presents both a potential risk and an opportunity for proactive risk management and emergency preparedness. By adhering to guidelines and conducting regular assessments, the dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while safeguarding the environment and surrounding communities from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1835

Dam Length

186

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

FIDDLE LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

49

Drainage Area

6.52

Nid Storage

977

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.