Lake Paupackan Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Paupackan, located in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, is a private reservoir used primarily for recreation.


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Summary

The dam that creates the lake is an earth structure with a height of 11 feet and a length of 390 feet, completed in 1914. With a normal storage capacity of 765 acre-feet and a surface area of 239 acres, the lake is situated in the Paupack Township and is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

Despite its age, Lake Paupackan has undergone structural modifications in 2006 and hydraulic modifications in 2013 to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is inspected regularly, with the last inspection conducted in June 2020, resulting in a satisfactory condition assessment. However, due to its high hazard potential, it is crucial for emergency action plans to be in place to mitigate any risks associated with the dam.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Lake Paupackan to be an intriguing example of a privately owned reservoir in Pennsylvania that serves both recreational and regulatory purposes. Its historical significance, coupled with ongoing maintenance and safety measures, make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental protection.

Years Modified

2006 - Structural, 2013 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR PURDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

239

Drainage Area

2.62

Nid Storage

1188

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.