Penn Nursery, located in Potter Township, Centre, Pennsylvania, is a state-regulated Earth dam constructed in 1972 primarily for irrigation purposes along Potter Run. With a height of 23 feet and a length of 600 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 293 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 54 acre-feet. Despite its significant contribution to the local water resource management, Penn Nursery is currently classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, hinting at the need for urgent maintenance and structural improvements.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Penn Nursery undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement actions to ensure its operational safety. However, its outdated Emergency Action Plan and lack of risk assessments and management measures highlight potential vulnerabilities in responding to emergencies or mitigating risks effectively. With its proximity to Buffalo District and the involvement of federal agencies, such as the US Army Corps of Engineers, there is room for collaborative efforts to enhance the dam's resilience and safeguard its surrounding communities and ecosystems from potential hazards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainable management of dams and irrigation infrastructure in Pennsylvania will find Penn Nursery a compelling case study for assessing the intersection of regulatory oversight, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency preparedness. By addressing the identified maintenance and risk management gaps, stakeholders can work towards securing the long-term viability and safety of Penn Nursery while preserving the vital water resources it provides for agricultural and environmental purposes.