Washburn Lake
Key Takeaway
Washburn Lake is classified as significant hazard in Pennsylvania. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 18 ft (taller than 37.7% in PA) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 58 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 36 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | PA01843 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CHRISTOPHER H. AND PATRICIA C. WASHBURN
Private
Nearby Dams
Cold Springs Park
Chester, PA
Low Hazard 30 ftWelkinweir
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High Hazard 16 ftRinehart
Montgomery, PA
Significant Hazard 12 ftHopewell
Berks, PA
High Hazard 29 ftScotts Run
Berks, PA
High Hazard 34 ftTrout Run
Berks, PA
High Hazard 104 ftBoyertown Reservoir
Berks, PA
High Hazard 55 ftGolf Ridge Lower
Montgomery, PA
High Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Washburn Lake?
Washburn Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Washburn Lake?
Washburn Lake is owned by CHRISTOPHER H. AND PATRICIA C. WASHBURN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Washburn Lake built?
Washburn Lake was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Washburn Lake?
Washburn 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 Washburn Lake?
Washburn Lake has a dam height of 18 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 Washburn Lake last inspected?
Washburn Lake was last inspected on December 8, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.