Umstc Lower Dam (Curie Drive)

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Umstc Lower Dam (Curie Drive) is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Prince George's County, Maryland, along the Patuxent River. Originally completed in 2001, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans a length of 625 feet, providing storage capacity of up to 129 acre-feet of water. The dam, designed by Century Engineering, serves as a crucial safeguard for the surrounding area, with a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of April 2021.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Umstc Lower Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the WSSC Pump Sta city area from potential flooding events. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 1700 cubic feet per second. Regular inspections, conducted every 3 years, ensure the dam's structural integrity and operational readiness. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a designated emergency action plan, Umstc Lower Dam is a key component of the region's water resource and climate resilience infrastructure.

Enthusiasts of water resource management and climate adaptation will appreciate the strategic importance of Umstc Lower Dam in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding communities along the Patuxent River. As a critical piece of infrastructure designed to protect against potential inundation, this earth dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government, regulatory agencies, and engineering firms in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in Prince George's County, Maryland. With its significant storage capacity, controlled spillway, and regular maintenance schedule, Umstc Lower Dam exemplifies the proactive approach to addressing water-related challenges in a changing climate landscape.