Pa-481 is a crucial earth dam located in Washington, Pennsylvania, specifically in Hanover Township along the Harmon Creek. Constructed in 1984 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a dam height of 51 feet and a length of 560 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1,620 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11 acres, providing protection for a drainage area of 3.41 square miles.

Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Pa-481 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in November 2020. As a part of the flood risk management system, Pa-481 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of water resource infrastructure in the face of climate change challenges.

With its significant contribution to flood risk reduction and water resource management in the region, Pa-481 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government agencies, regulatory bodies, and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding communities against potential natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role of structures like Pa-481 in mitigating flood risks and ensuring public safety underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure investments to build resilience in the face of a changing climate.