Suydam Dam (Pa-418) in Wayne, Pennsylvania, is a vital structure owned by the local government and regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 24 feet high and stretches 508 feet across Lollipop Creek in Berlin Township. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Suydam Dam has a storage capacity of 433 acre-feet and serves as a crucial defense against potential flooding in the area.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Suydam Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, signaling the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection in November 2020 revealed no immediate concerns, but the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unclear. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of Suydam Dam's operation and maintenance is crucial for ensuring its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community.

With its location in a populated area and the potential for significant consequences in the event of a failure, Suydam Dam represents a critical piece of infrastructure that requires ongoing attention and oversight. As stakeholders in water resource management, it is essential to advocate for proper funding, monitoring, and emergency preparedness to safeguard against the impacts of extreme weather events and protect the local environment and residents.