Horton Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Horton Lake, located in Lenox Township, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned recreational reservoir that was completed in 1956.


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Summary

With a dam height of 10 feet and a length of 358 feet, the lake has a capacity of 345 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 280 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 46 acres and is fed by the Sterling Brook, providing a picturesque and tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy a variety of recreational activities.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Horton Lake is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its current condition is assessed as fair. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent one taking place in November 2020. Although there are no emergency action plans in place at this time, the reservoir remains a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities in the Susquehanna County area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Horton Lake offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty. Its earth dam design and buttress core provide a sturdy structure for water storage, while its location along the Sterling Brook adds to the ecological significance of the area. With its rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, Horton Lake serves as both a recreational retreat and a valuable resource for studying the impact of human interventions on freshwater ecosystems.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

358

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

STERLING BROOK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Drainage Area

0.58

Nid Storage

345

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.