Olyphant No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Olyphant No 2 is a state-regulated dam located in Archbald Borough, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, along the Grassy Island Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1888 for recreation purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 55 feet and has a storage capacity of 85.9 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 1.47 acres and serves as a popular recreational spot in the area.

Despite its age, Olyphant No 2 is assessed to be in fair condition with a significant hazard potential. The dam undergoes inspections every two years, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. It is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that it meets state regulatory standards for safety and maintenance. While no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared for the dam, it continues to be monitored for any potential risks.

With its historical significance and recreational value, Olyphant No 2 remains a vital water resource in Lackawanna County. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the rich history and engineering behind this dam, as well as the ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and functionality for the community.

Year Completed

1888

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

GRASSY ISLAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.47

Drainage Area

2.17

Nid Storage

85.9

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

55
       
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.