Richardson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Washington No 3 Washington No 4
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Located in Canton Township, Pennsylvania, the Richardson dam stands as a vital component of water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1976, this private-owned structure serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a surface area of 6 acres and storing up to 63 acre-feet of water from the TR CHARTIERS CREEK. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of water and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.
Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Richardson dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to guarantee its structural integrity and hazard potential. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in November 2020. With its buttress core type and earth foundation, the Richardson dam underscores the importance of effective water management practices and the critical role dams play in mitigating climate-related risks in the area.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Richardson dam stands as a symbol of resilience and preparedness in the face of potential emergencies. While emergency action plans and risk assessments are yet to be fully developed, the dam's satisfactory condition and regulatory oversight provide a sense of assurance to the local community and stakeholders. With its strategic location and operational capabilities, Richardson serves as a key element in the broader framework of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in Washington County, Pennsylvania.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR CHARTIERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
63 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Richardson
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