Olyphant No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Olyphant No 3, located in Lackawanna, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1898 for recreational purposes along the Grassy Island Creek.


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Summary

With a dam height of 38 feet and a length of 760 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10.2 acres. Despite its age, the dam is maintained in fair condition and undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Olyphant No 3 poses a significant hazard potential due to its size and location in Jessup Borough. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. Recognized for its contribution to the local community, the dam's historical significance and continued presence highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change challenges.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Olyphant No 3 stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. With ongoing efforts to monitor and maintain its condition, this earth dam remains a symbol of the delicate balance between harnessing water for recreational use and ensuring the safety and well-being of the local ecosystem.

Year Completed

1898

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

GRASSY ISLAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.2

Drainage Area

0.72

Nid Storage

157

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.