RAYSTOWN LAKE, Pennsylvania -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, has announced the selection of Jude T. Harrington as the new operations manager for the Raystown Lake Project. Harrington will oversee a variety of missions at the multi-purpose lake including flood risk management, recreation, natural resource opportunities and hydropower.
“I am excited about the new opportunities that lie ahead for Raystown Lake; this lake has a proud history of accomplishments that have been recognized at the national level,” said Harrington. “It’s the quality of our staff that has allowed our programs to reach this level of success. I am committed to maintaining that high standard.”
Nick Krupa previously served in this role for 5 and a half years and has since assumed duties as a project manager at the District’s Headquarters in Baltimore. He also serves as the District’s Section 408 coordinator.
“Nick Krupa provided outstanding leadership to his Raystown Lake team resulting in many accomplishments that continue to have a positive impact on the lake and surrounding environment,” said Col. John T. Litz, Baltimore District commander. “Jude Harrington is experienced and well-qualified for the job and I have great confidence in his ability to continue the legacy of outstanding public service and care for the Raystown Lake Project.”
During his 39-year career with the Corps, Harrington has worked at seven different lakes throughout five Corps Districts, including 27 years as a Raystown ranger. In 2014, he received the American Recreation Coalition’s Legend Award for outstanding service in the field of outdoor recreation.
As one of the founding members and long-term advisor of the Friends of Raystown Lake, Harrington has paved the way for many partnerships resulting in improved recreational opportunities and new environmental stewardship initiatives. The value these partnership programs contribute to the Raystown Lake community on an annual basis consistently ranks in the top tier of the Corps.
“Working with partners and stakeholders to solve difficult challenges not only provides diverse ideas, but also brings energy, resources and accountability to any initiative,” said Harrington. “Working alongside our partners is one of the things that makes this job so enjoyable.”
Harrington also brings a wealth of experience to the ongoing Master Plan Revision process at Raystown, which is anticipated to be finalized in spring 2020. The revision will identify new and enhanced recreational opportunities, such as improved access for paddle sports, group camping and biking and hiking trails.
Raystown Lake is the largest lake located in Pennsylvania, offering 8,300 surface acres of water surrounded by 21,000 acres of forested mountain slopes. Their camping facilities boast one of the highest occupancy rates in the nation, and both their Environmental Stewardship and Water Safety programs serve as a national model for Corps recreation projects.
Harrington and his wife Marybeth are long-time residents of McConnellstown, where they have raised their four daughters.
