Lake Sheridan
Key Takeaway
Lake Sheridan is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1872 and is 154 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 | 10 ft (taller than 8.3% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 127 ft |
| Dam Type | Stone |
| Max Storage | 834 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 621 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 63 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1872 (154 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00744 |
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
LAKE SHERIDAN COTTAGERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Sheridan?
Lake Sheridan 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 Sheridan?
Lake Sheridan is owned by LAKE SHERIDAN COTTAGERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Sheridan built?
Lake Sheridan was completed in 1872, making it 154 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 Sheridan?
Lake Sheridan 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 Sheridan?
Lake Sheridan has a dam height of 10 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 Sheridan last inspected?
Lake Sheridan was last inspected on January 22, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.