Lake Choctaw, located in North Union Township, Pennsylvania, is a private recreational lake managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The earthen dam, completed in 1974, spans 800 feet and stands at a height of 34 feet, providing a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet. With a surface area of 23 acres and a drainage area of 2.55 square miles, the lake is fed by the Little Sugarloaf Creek.

Despite its scenic appeal, Lake Choctaw poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam's emergency action plan is outdated, raising concerns about its ability to mitigate risks in case of a breach or significant weather events. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one in November 2020, to assess the dam's integrity and ensure public safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Choctaw offers a case study in the management of private recreational water bodies and the importance of maintaining infrastructure to prevent potential hazards. The dam's location in Schuylkill County and its proximity to the Baltimore District underscore the need for continued regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness to protect both the environment and nearby communities from the impacts of dam failure.