Dutch Springs (Lake Hydra) (2/3)
Dutch Springs
Fresh Water Fun in Pennsylvania
by Pete Nawrocky
Imagine making a dive in clear water with no tides, currents, or waves ...
Visiting structures underwater that are specifically there for your enjoyment ...
Photographing fish that are bright orange or green that will allow you to approach within a few inches ...
After the dive, you can enjoy a barbecue with your family. Located in Bethlehem Pennsylvania, Dutch Springs is a 47 acre lake that gives a diver the opportunity to discover the joys of freshwater diving.
Most people think of Dutch Springs as just a place to go for dive training. Although it is true that thousands of individuals have completed their dive training here, this Lake has so much more to offer and the history of Dutch springs is a story in itself.
In the early 1930s this area was nothing more than three farms in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania. The National Portland Cement Co. surveyed the area and purchased the farms to begin excavation. The area is rich in limestone that is used in the manufacture of cement. As they began to remove the limestone and dug deeper the quarry began to flood. Pumping of water had to begin almost immediately to keep the quarry operational. During World War II most of the employees were needed for the war effort. To save money the pumps were shut off and the quarry was allowed to fill.
After the employees returned the pumps were turned back on and the removal of limestone continued. The depth of the quarry now reached almost 100'. In the 1970s the quarry went out of business, the pumps were shut off for the final time, and the quarry became a lake. Purchased by 5 partners whose intent was to develop the lake for diving, Dutch Springs opened for business Labor Day of 1980. Crowds flocked in the single digits to experience a small entry area and 1 submerged platform. Fifteen years later there are 15 platforms and a variety of entry areas with ample parking.
Times change, people move on, and now Mr. Stuart Schooley is the sole owner, affectionately known as Stu. He is always available to answer questions, give friendly advice, and point out the attractions found in the lake. Stu's aim is to deliver enjoyable diving accommodations for every level of certification. Non-divers have not been left out in the scheme of things either, but first, let's talk about diving at Dutch Springs.
As I mentioned before, many individuals finished their certification here. Dive platforms are located at strategic positions at a depth of approximately 20'. Buoys mark the locations on the surface and are easy to spot. There is even a boat ladder platform with a hang bar at 15' for simulated boat diving. Maps are provided at the entrance and the helpful staff will answer any questions you may have. Dive support is provided by certified and insured Divemasters, Assistant Instructors, and Instructors who are always present while the lake is open for diving. Oxygen, first aid equipment, and medical personnel are available. Support such as this has made Dutch Springs one of the largest freshwater training facilities in the East.
Of course, many of you out there are already certified and may not be thinking of diving in a "training facility." Well, think about this: currently, you can dive on a Cessna airplane in 35' of water, a fire truck in 25' of water, or a gantry that descends to a depth of 80'. There is a submerged pump station, wooden cruisers, a steel vessel, a van, and a tanker truck. There is also a submerged "island" and a steel staircase that starts on the surface and descends to the lake depths. Depth in the lake can reach 100' but most of the attractions are located in shallow water. If you are into viewing some of the residents of this lake, keep your eyes open and swim slowly. Some of the current inhabitants are trout, bass, bluegills, large goldfish, and crayfish. Algae and freshwater plants create sweeping vistas that are fun to swim past. Submerged trees and other structures are a favorite hangout for the fish. There is a stocking program that is assisted by a biologist to help introduce new species properly. Of course, fishing of any kind is NOT allowed. Early spring and fall will give the best conditions for visibility. It can exceed 30', but the water temperatures can be in the low 40s in the spring. Wide Angle u/w photography is best practiced at this time of the year. As the weather and the water warms up, thermoclines will develop. The warmer water stays on the top and the heavier, colder layers sink towards the bottom. Usually, two develop, one at a depth of 20' and a second at 60'. Water on the bottom can still be in the 40s which will explain why some divers will still wear drysuits in August. In the summer, surface temperatures can be in the high 70s, but a wake-up call will follow once you pass through the thermoclines. Visibility will drop to an average of 15' because of algae growth. The bottom of all lakes will have areas of fine silt that will reduce visibility if buoyancy control is poor.
A Diamond Reef System has been installed permanently at a depth of 25' on one of the platforms. This group of 7 diamonds made from PVC piping is here to help you fine-tune buoyancy control. When you combine all the attractions here and also have the added pleasure of no tides, currents, or waves, the diving day plans out to be fun and exciting ... But wait there's more!
After the dive, enjoy hot and cold running showers and a heated changing facility. This is definitely a treat after a cold spring dive. There are also two open-air pavilions for special events. Dutch Springs did not forget the non-diving members of the family either: watercraft are available to rent. The selection includes kayaks, paddle boats, and water bikes. Swimming is allowed and there are large open fields for more family fun. Barbecuing is allowed but you must supply your own grill, as no open fires are allowed.
Alcohol is not permitted at any time. Future plans include a wading pool and playground.
Dutch Springs is the site for many special events including store treasure hunts, fundraisers and Divers Alert Network (DAN) dive safety programs. Dive manufactures hold equipment trials from time to time during the season. Admission rates are $15.00 per diver, $10.00 for each non-diver, and $5.00 for non-diving children (5 to 11 years between May 15 and Sept. 30). The season begins April 1 and ends the second weekend in December. Although there are no dive shop facilities, air fills are available.
Altogether, Dutch Springs brings family fun and diving together in the grassy fields of the Lehigh Valley.
Travel directions: From new York and New Jersey
West on I78 to Rte. 22 (exit 3, last exit in N.J.)
to route 191, North on 191 to Hanoverville rd.
Approx. 1 mile north of Route 22, Make a left
Travel approx. 1 mile Dutch Springs is on the left.
For more information, visit the Dutch Springs Website (http://dutchsprings.com), or write to:
Dutch Springs
4733 Hanoverville Rd.
Bethlehem PA. 18017
Phone: 610-837-1618 / 759-2270
Email: dutchspr@dutchsprings.com
Original NJScuba website by Tracy Baker Wagner 1994-1996
