Lower (Pa-487a) is a state-owned earth dam located in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, specifically in East Fallowfield Township. Built in 1973, the dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 1700 feet in length, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along Crooked Creek. With a storage capacity of 7810 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Lower (Pa-487a) is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2020. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place at this time, its maintenance and monitoring are carried out to meet state guidelines and ensure its effectiveness in flood risk reduction.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower (Pa-487a) represents a vital piece of infrastructure in Pennsylvania's efforts to manage flood risks and protect communities along Crooked Creek. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the dam serves as a key asset in safeguarding the area from potential inundation events. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, the importance of well-maintained dams like Lower (Pa-487a) in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water resource sustainability cannot be overstated.