Lake Catalpa
Key Takeaway
Lake Catalpa is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1860 and is 166 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 | 23 ft (taller than 51% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Stone |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 562 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 115 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1860 (166 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00560 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
GERALDINE NESBITT
Private
Nearby Dams
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Significant Hazard 45 ftToby Creek Impoundment Basin
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High Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Catalpa?
Lake Catalpa 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 Lake Catalpa?
Lake Catalpa is owned by GERALDINE NESBITT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Catalpa built?
Lake Catalpa was completed in 1860, making it 166 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 Lake Catalpa?
Lake Catalpa 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 Lake Catalpa?
Lake Catalpa has a dam height of 23 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 Lake Catalpa last inspected?
Lake Catalpa was last inspected on August 25, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.