North Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

North Lake, located in Pike, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned reservoir regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

Built in 1972, this earth dam stands at 18 feet tall and spans 730 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite its significance in the region, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, raising concerns for its long-term safety and maintenance.

The reservoir, situated in Delaware Township along TR Hornbecks Creek, covers a surface area of 15 acres with a drainage area of 0.5 square miles. With a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, North Lake offers opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based recreation. However, the dam's outdated infrastructure and lack of recent inspection and maintenance raise alarms about its ability to withstand potential emergencies and natural disasters, highlighting the need for proactive risk management measures and emergency action planning.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor North Lake's condition, it serves as a reminder of the vital role dams play in balancing water supply, recreation, and environmental protection. With ongoing concerns about its safety and upkeep, stakeholders must work together to ensure the resilience and sustainability of this essential water resource in Pennsylvania.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

730

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR HORNBECKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

112

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.