Craft Pond, located in Paupack Township, Wayne County, Pennsylvania, is a privately-owned earth dam constructed in 1892 for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 19 feet and a length of 190 feet, the dam impounds Purdy Creek, creating a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet. Despite its age, Craft Pond remains regulated and inspected by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with state standards.
The pond covers 16 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, serving as a popular spot for outdoor recreational activities in the area. However, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, raising concerns about its long-term safety and maintenance. The last inspection in December 2020 noted the need for improvements to meet safety guidelines, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management and emergency preparedness measures for this historical structure.
As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, Craft Pond stands as a testament to the challenges of maintaining aging dams for both recreational and safety purposes. With its rich history and scenic location, the pond serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the responsibilities of stewardship and risk mitigation in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1892 |
Dam Length |
190 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR PURDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Caffrey Rec Area - PPL
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Ironwood Point Rec Area - PPL
|
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Ledgedale Rec Area
|
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Wilsonville Rec Area - PPL
|
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White Deer Camp
|
||
Promised Land State Park
|