Ontelaunee Lake

Ontelaunee Lake is a man-made reservoir located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. It was created in 1926 by the damming of Maiden Creek, and was expanded in the 1960s to increase water storage capacity for the city of Reading. The lake covers an area of 1,082 acres and has a maximum depth of 66 feet. It is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water sports, with species such as bass, catfish, and walleye among the most commonly caught fish. The lake is surrounded by Ontelaunee Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities. In recent years, concerns have been raised about water quality in Ontelaunee Lake due to runoff from nearby agricultural and residential areas. The lake has also experienced issues with an overgrowth of algae, which can be harmful to aquatic life and humans alike. Efforts are underway to address these issues and preserve the health and recreational value of the lake.