Pocono Laurel Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Pocono Laurel Lake is a private water resource located in Monroe, Pennsylvania, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at 11 feet high and spanning 550 feet in length, provides a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5 acres. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.

Situated in Pocono Township, alongside the Pocono Creek, this significant dam has a fair condition assessment and a hazard potential that is being closely monitored with a biennial inspection frequency. While lacking certain emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, efforts are being made to address any potential risks associated with the dam. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Pocono Laurel Lake serves as a valuable asset to the community while also playing a crucial role in water resource management and climate resiliency efforts in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will be fascinated by the intricacies of Pocono Laurel Lake, from its design and construction to its regulatory oversight and risk management. As a vital part of the local ecosystem and a source of recreation for residents, this dam represents a balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship. With ongoing inspections and maintenance, Pocono Laurel Lake stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR POCONO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.