Indian Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Indian Lake, located in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, is a privately owned reservoir regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.


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Summary

Built in 1928, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9 feet and spans a length of 404 feet, with a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet and a surface area of 32 acres. The lake serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil retreat for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

Despite its scenic beauty and recreational value, Indian Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its fair condition assessment. Regular inspections, with the latest conducted in January 2021, help ensure the dam's structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. The dam's hazard potential underscores the importance of emergency preparedness measures and risk management strategies to mitigate potential risks and protect downstream areas in the event of a dam failure. While the dam's condition is currently deemed fair, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to safeguarding the lake's integrity and the well-being of those who enjoy its waters.

With its picturesque setting along Shades Creek in Buck Township, Indian Lake offers a peaceful haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. As a vital water resource in the region, the lake provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns. Through responsible stewardship and collaborative efforts, Indian Lake can continue to thrive as a cherished destination for generations to come, highlighting the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and community well-being.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

404

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

SHADES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

280

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

9
       
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.