Crystal Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Crystal Lake in Pennsylvania is a privately owned water resource with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This dam, completed in 1926, stands at 13 feet high and spans 870 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 755 acre-feet. Located in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, in Lehigh Township, Crystal Lake is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.

The dam is classified as an Earth type with a buttress core, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory, with no recent risk assessments or emergency action plans in place. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 0.77 square miles, provides a serene setting for visitors to enjoy the 133-acre surface area of the lake, offering a peaceful escape in a picturesque natural environment.

With its rich history dating back nearly a century, Crystal Lake continues to be a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. From fishing and boating to picnicking and hiking, this idyllic spot in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Township offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community through regular inspections and maintenance.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

870

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

LEHIGH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

133

Drainage Area

0.77

Nid Storage

755

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.