Tamarack Lake
Crawford
DESCRIPTION: Tamarack Lake was constructed in 1962 and fully flooded in 1963 as a flood control and recreational lake (fishing only) in the Mill Run drainage area—a large tamarack swamp or bog, and thus its namesake. Controlled by the PFBC the lake was formed by two dams, one on the northwestern end and the other on the southeastern end. One drains into Mill Run to the west and goes into French Creek. At the southeast, the outlet flows into Little Sugar Creek. Water comes from several small creeks from the surrounding hills and by rain. It is a long narrow lake and rather shallow. Birdwise it is mainly an attraction for water birds during migration. Swans, ducks, grebes, gulls, and terns are most common. Bald Eagle use the area for fishing and nest nearby. Large flocks of Tundra Swan, geese, and ducks from late February to May may be found there. On a few occasions, during a dry summer or when repair work is being done on the dams, the water level drops and huge numbers of shorebirds and herons may be seen. Common Loon, Long-tailed Duck, scoters, Short-eared Owl, and Wild Turkey are also found.

DIRECTIONS: Tamarack Lake is located 4.5 miles southeast of Meadville. Accessed from the south from the intersection of US 322 and PA 173 at Cochranton go east on PA 173 for 0.3 mile and turn left (north) on Franklin Pike. Go 1.5 miles and turn right (east) on Pettis Road. Go 2.8 miles to Pettis Corners. Turn left (west) on Freyermuth Road, go 0.4 mile and turn right (north) on Tamarack Drive. Follow this road for 4.2 miles as it follows the west shore. There are several pull-oofs and parking areas from which to view the lake. Turn right (north) on Williamson Road, go 0.35 mile and turn right (east) on Devore Road. Go 1 mile and turn right (south) on Spring Road which leads to a boat launching area.

 

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Posted: 2009-10-24 00:00:00
Updated: