Hibernia (Pa-436f) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rock Run Beaver Creek (Pa-433)
Last Updated: January 8, 2026
Hibernia (Pa-436f), also known as Hibernia Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in West Caln Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania.
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Summary
This earth dam was completed in 1994 by Ward Associates and the USDA NRCS, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. Standing at a height of 64.5 feet and a length of 700 feet, Hibernia Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events along the Birch Run river.
With a storage capacity of 3,300 acre-feet, Hibernia Dam not only serves as a flood control measure but also supports recreation and water supply needs in the region. The dam's condition is assessed as fair, with a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection oversees the regulatory aspects of the dam, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement, to uphold safety standards and protect the environment.
As a significant feature in the Baltimore District, Hibernia (Pa-436f) stands as a testament to effective collaboration between local government and federal agencies in managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. Its strategic location and design demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding communities against floods while providing additional benefits such as recreational opportunities and water supply reliability. The ongoing monitoring and risk management measures in place reflect a proactive approach to maintaining the dam's integrity and ensuring its continued functionality for the well-being of the surrounding area.
Years Modified |
2005 - Other, 2020 - Foundation, 2020 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
64.5 |
River Or Stream |
BIRCH RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
84.9 |
Drainage Area |
4.5 |
Nid Storage |
3300 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
65 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Hibernia (Pa-436f)
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