Lower Hemlock Lake

TR ROCK HILL CREEK· Pike, Pennsylvania· Built 1947· Earth· 15 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lower Hemlock Lake is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 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 15 ft (taller than 27.6% in PA)
Dam Length440 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage394 acre-ft
Normal Storage307 acre-ft
Surface Area23 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1947 (79 years old)
NID IDPA00756

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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Elm Lake

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Mcconnell Lake

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Flatbrook Way Lake

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Pickerel Pond

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Lake Adventure

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lower Hemlock Lake?

Lower Hemlock 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 Lower Hemlock Lake?

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

When was Lower Hemlock Lake built?

Lower Hemlock Lake was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 Lower Hemlock Lake?

Lower Hemlock 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 Lower Hemlock Lake?

Lower Hemlock Lake has a dam height of 15 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 Lower Hemlock Lake last inspected?

Lower Hemlock 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.