Text and photos by Pete Nawrocky
Imagine making a dive in clear water with no tides, currents or waves. Structure’s that are left over from the time the lake was a working quarry are specifically there for your enjoyment. Photographing fish that are bright colored and somewhat approachable will challenge the photographers abilities. After the dive you can enjoy a barbecue with your family. Located in Bethlehem Pa. Dutch Springs is a 47 acre lake that gives a diver the opportunity to discover the joys of fresh water diving. Most people think of Dutch Springs as a place for dive training and not much more. After spending time in the water it’s obvious this lake has so much more to offer, and the history of Dutch springs is a story in itself.
In the early 1930’s 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 a type of
limestone that is used in the specific manufacture of Portland cement. As the minerals, soil and rock were excavated they dug deeper and closer to the water table. 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. Depth of the quarry now reached almost 100’. In the 1970’s the quality of limestone needed was expended and operations were shut down. The pumps were shut off for the final time and the Quarry became a Lake. Purchased by 5 partners, their intent was to develop the lake for SCUBA 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. Twenty five years later there are currently 15 platforms a variety of entry areas with ample parking. Bath houses have been added, and these facilities substantially increase the day’s enjoyment.
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. First let’s talk about diving at Dutch Springs.
Dive platforms are located at strategic locations at a depth of approx. 20’. Buoy’s 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 insured Dive masters, Assistant Instructors and Instructors that are always present while the lake is open for diving. Oxygen, First aid equipment and Medical personnel are available. Support as this has made them one of the largest fresh water 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 a helicopter, and a small crane and the list increases every year. There is also a submerged “Island” and a Steel Stair case that starts on the surface and descends to the lake depths. Depth in 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, Palomino Trout Bluegills, large Goldfish, and Crayfish. More species are added with the approval of a biologist. Submerged trees and other structures are a favorite hang out for the fish. Algae and fresh water plants create sweeping vistas that are fun to swim past. 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 40’s 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 thermo clines 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 40’s which will explain why some divers will still where dry suits in August. In the summer surface temperatures can be in the high 70’s but a wake up call will follow once you pass through the thermo clines. 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 P.V.C. 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, a heated changing facility. This is definitely a treat after a cold spring dive. There are also two Open Air Pavilions for special events. And Dutch Springs did not forget the non-diving members of the family.
Water craft are available to rent. The selection includes kayaks, paddle boats and water bikes. An “Aqua Park” has been added with its own attractions Swimming is allowed and there are large open fields for more family fun. A new attraction that has been incorporated for 2006 is, The Sky Challenge. This two story tall tower of fun is equipped with a simulated rock climbing wall and a series of ropes and “bridges” to traverse. Barbecuing is allowed but you must supply your own grill, as no open fires are allowed.
Alcohol is not permitted at any time.
http://www.worlddiving.info/images/dutchsprings/DutchSprings7.jpg
Dutch Springs is the site for many special events including store treasure hunts, fund raisers and Diver Alert Network (D.A.N.) Dive safety programs. Dive manufactures hold equipment trails from time to time during the season.
The pleasant setting has become a favorite dive destination in the Northeast.
Daily Admission Rates Adult Scuba Diver
$25.00 per diver Weekend $17.00 per non scuba diver from May 20th – September 30th
Weekdays Monday – Friday $15.00 per non scuba diver from May 20th – September 30th
Before May 20th and after September 30th $10.00 per non scuba diver.
Children 5 to 9 years old $10.00 per child weekends $8.00 per child weekdays
from May 21st – September 30th Before May 20th and after October 1st- FREE
Children under 5 years old are FREE. Saturday Night Scuba Dive $5.00 per diver.
Saturday night only. Please present advanced c-card or be under instructor supervision. Admission rates are $25.00 per diver, $10.00 non-diver and $5.00 for non-diving children (5 to 11 years between May 15 – Sept. 30.) The season begins April 1 until the second weekend in December. Although there are no dive shop facility’s air fills are available.
All together 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 write to:
Dutch Springs
4733 Hanoverville Rd.
Bethlehem PA. 18017
610-837-1618 – 759-2270
www.dutchsprings.com