RIP Speedwell Forge? SEPA Content

[Rincewind]

The SEPA area has been made less scenic recently.  Speedwell Forge Lake, North of Lititz PA, was a beautiful area that I enjoyed riding through for many years.  The lake has now been drained and may not come back.  Where once there was plentiful boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, it is now fairly well empty.  I have not been by it yet, but will try to get that way to see it soon for myself.  The dam was damaged and the repair costs are not in the budget.

Here's a local article http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/492876_Dried-up.html .  There is a public meeting on Nov. 14th.  Local support group that is trying to bring it back - https://www.facebook.com/savespeedwell

[Doug Just Doug]

What, that explains what I saw yesterday on the ride back from Ephrata. I was wondering "WTF happened?" as I was pretty sure there used to be a lot of water there. I never remember the name of that road, but I take E. Brubaker Valley from 322 and then just keep going as it changes names until it ends at Doe Run.

[ConPilot1]

Just like Leaser Lake Park at the bottom of the Blue Ridge Mountain. I used to fish there all the time.

Now it's just a grassland.  

[Rincewind]

What, that explains what I saw yesterday on the ride back from Ephrata. I was wondering "WTF happened?" as I was pretty sure there used to be a lot of water there. I never remember the name of that road, but I take E. Brubaker Valley from 322 and then just keep going as it changes names until it ends at Doe Run.

Yes, Brubaker Valley Road goes right over where the lake used to be located.  

[stc10]

Just like Leaser Lake Park at the bottom of the Blue Ridge Mountain. I used to fish there all the time.

Now it's just a grassland.  

Actually, the dam has been rebuilt. Construction is done or nearly done. They expect the lake to be refilled next year. Check it out http://www.leaserlakeheritage.org/index.html . I look forward to getting my small sailboats out again.

[slayman]

I trundled through there two Sundays ago. The place was packed with Fish and Game trucks and people walking around. A bunch of folks with metal detectors looking for treasures. I hope they can eventually fix  the dam and refill the lake.