Elm Lake

YORK CREEK· Pike, Pennsylvania· Built 1972· Earth· 28 ft tall

High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Elm Lake is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height	28 ft (taller than 61.9% in PA)
Dam Length	1,500 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	365 acre-ft
Normal Storage	215 acre-ft

Surface Area	28 acres
Drainage Area	0 sq mi
Year Completed	1972 (54 years old)
NID ID	PA00397

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: August 5, 2020

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Ownership

HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Elm Lake?

Elm Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Elm Lake?

Elm Lake is owned by HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Elm Lake built?

Elm Lake was completed in 1972, making it 54 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Elm Lake?

Elm Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Elm Lake?

Elm Lake has a dam height of 28 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Elm Lake last inspected?

Elm Lake was last inspected on August 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.