Lower Rickards Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Lower Rickards is a private recreational dam located in Delaware Township, Pike, Pennsylvania, along Hornbecks Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 11.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 43 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 15 acres, Lower Rickards is a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Lower Rickards is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed during its last inspection in October 2020. While there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for visitors in the area.

Located within the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lower Rickards offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. With its modest size and surrounding natural landscape, this private dam serves as a valuable asset for both the local community and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Pennsylvania's Pike County.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

11.7

River Or Stream

HORNBECKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

1.42

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.