The Little Schuylkill River (Pa-422) is a vital water resource in Pennsylvania, managed by local government authorities and designed by the USDA NRCS. This river is regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its proper management and maintenance. Situated in Rush Township, Schuylkill County, this river serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with an earth dam standing at a height of 87 feet and a length of 700 feet.

Completed in 1968, the Little Schuylkill River dam has a storage capacity of 6000 acre-feet and covers a drainage area of 15.6 square miles. With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and reliability of this structure. Although no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared yet, the dam meets guidelines and is actively managed to mitigate risks and ensure proper risk management measures are in place.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of the Little Schuylkill River (Pa-422) as a key flood risk reduction infrastructure in Pennsylvania. Its strategic location and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding communities against potential hazards. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance, this dam continues to play a critical role in protecting the surrounding area and enhancing resilience to climate-related challenges.