Protecting Twin Lakes: New Report Urges Action on Stormwater and Erosion Threats
A newly released report by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) in partnership with the Stewards of Twin Lakes has revealed critical stormwater runoff and erosion threats impacting both Big and Little Twin Lakes—with urgent recommendations for action.
The 42-page assessment, based on a site visit conducted on August 6, 2024, documents widespread issues stemming from failing stormwater culverts, hillside drainage, sediment-laden runoff, and unmanaged road ditches. These problems are degrading lake water quality, increasing erosion, and threatening both the ecological health of the lakes and the quality of life for the community’s 550+ homeowners.
“Stormwater runoff from roads and steep slopes is not only eroding property—it’s pouring sediment and pollutants into the lake,” said Paul Racette, Senior Watershed Program Manager at PEC. “We saw firsthand the urgency of addressing these issues.”
Key Findings Include:
Multiple culverts along Shohola Road and Twin Lakes Road are directing high-velocity runoff directly into the lake, deepening erosion channels and bypassing filtration.
Gravel road ditches, particularly near Park Place and Sagamore Estates Beach, overflow during rain events, washing sediment and potentially harmful contaminants into the lake.
Invasive aquatic species and increased nutrient loading are compounding long-term ecological impacts.
Homeowner and HOA-led efforts, without coordinated strategies, remain insufficient to manage system-wide water flow and erosion risks.
Recommended Solutions:
The report offers a dual-level approach:
Homeowner Toolkit – Practical strategies like rain barrels, rain gardens, tree planting, and permeable pavement that residents can implement now.
Community-Scale Projects – Installation of level spreaders, retentive grading berms, vegetated swales, and erosion control structures along problem corridors.
The PEC report includes detailed cost estimates, maintenance plans, plant recommendations, and implementation guidance—providing a roadmap for immediate and long-term action.
Why It Matters:
These lakes are spring-fed, glacial water bodies central to the environmental and economic health of the region. Without intervention, sedimentation and pollution will continue to impair water clarity, fish habitat, and property values.
“This report gives our community not just a wake-up call—but a blueprint,” said Kirk Mackey, Master Watershed Steward and co-founder of the Stewards of Twin Lakes. “We now need everyone—homeowners, HOAs, township leaders, and county agencies—to work together and act.”
The complete report, “Assessment of Big & Little Twin Lakes – Summary of Concerns and Recommendations,” is now available at: See Full Report Here
For more information or to get involved in lake protection efforts, contact:
📩 info@stewardsoftwinlakes.org
🌐 www.stewardsoftwinlakes.org