Lake Pahagaco Reservoir Report

Nearby: Mill Kessler

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Pahagaco, located in York, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned recreational lake that serves as a popular destination for water enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, completed in 1956, stands at a height of 85 feet and has a length of 1127 feet, providing storage of up to 4908 acre-feet of water. With a surface area of 137 acres and a drainage area of 2.33 square miles, the lake offers ample space for various water activities.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Lake Pahagaco is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with guidelines. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its current condition is assessed as fair. Despite this, the lake remains a popular spot for recreation, attracting visitors who enjoy fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. With its picturesque location in Jackson Township and proximity to the First Fork of Bunch Creek, Lake Pahagaco provides a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

While the lake's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) details may be lacking, its regular inspections and maintenance help to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the management of Lake Pahagaco will be crucial in preserving this valuable recreational asset for future generations. With its scenic views, ample storage capacity, and state-regulated oversight, Lake Pahagaco stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1127

Dam Height

85

River Or Stream

FIRST FORK OF BUNCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

137

Drainage Area

2.33

Nid Storage

4908

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

85
       
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.