On December 11, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Pennsylvania announced the completion of the rehabilitation of Brandywine Creek PA-436f Hibernia Dam in Chester County.

The $1.45 million project improves flood protection for public safety in 14 municipalities, water supply to nearby residents, and recreational opportunities.

Hibernia Dam was originally constructed in 1994 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, in partnership with the Chester County Water Resources Authority.

Hibernia Dam is one of five multi-purpose dams constructed in the Brandywine Creek Watershed, and provides up to four million gallons of water per day for public water supplies.

The rehabilitation allows the dam to meet current safety engineering standards and will extend the dam’s life another 50 years.

Rehabilitation included a new rock filter toe, regrading of the downstream bench, and installation of a concrete cutoff wall in the auxiliary spillway. These structural repairs will increase the integrity of the dam and significantly lower any risks to public safety and health.

The project also improves recreational opportunities at Hibernia County Park and wildlife habitat for Chambers Lake and adjacent riparian lands.

Through the Watershed Rehabilitation Program, NRCS provided planning and design for the rehabilitation project, which began in June 2020, along with 65 percent of the construction cost.

Sponsors – Chester County Water Resources Authority and Chester County Board of Commissioners – provided easement land rights and 35 percent of the construction cost.

For more information on programs, initiatives, technical and financial assistance available to landowners, visit the NRCS-PA webpage.

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[Posted: December 11, 2020]

12/14/2020