Minsi Lake
Key Takeaway
Minsi Lake is classified as high hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 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 | 27 ft (taller than 60.1% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 3,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 960 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 117 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | PA00788 |
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
PA FISH & BOAT COMMISSION
State Government
Nearby Dams
Echo Lake
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Significant Hazard 10 ftWest Side Detention
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High Hazard 9 ftColumbia Dam
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Low Hazard 18 ftSpring Lake
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Low Hazard 8 ftDelaware Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 21 ftFlagler
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Low Hazard 19 ftRobert Christman
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High Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Minsi Lake?
Minsi 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 Minsi Lake?
Minsi Lake is owned by PA FISH & BOAT COMMISSION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Minsi Lake built?
Minsi Lake was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Minsi Lake?
Minsi 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 Minsi Lake?
Minsi Lake has a dam height of 27 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 Minsi Lake last inspected?
Minsi Lake was last inspected on October 22, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.