Galestown Millpond (Galestown-Reliance Road) Reservoir Report
Nearby: Portsville Mill Pond Dam Craigs Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Galestown Millpond, located on Galestown-Reliance Road in Dorchester County, Maryland, is a man-made reservoir built in 1972 primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 9 feet and stretching 500 feet in length, holds back Gales Creek to create a surface area of 44.4 acres and a storage capacity of 228 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the reservoir plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation activities in the region while also providing a serene setting for water-based recreational activities.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Galestown Millpond has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam underwent structural modifications in 2008 to ensure its continued safe operation, with regular inspections conducted every five years to monitor its condition. With a spillway width of 19 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 711 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle excess water flow during heavy rainfall events, minimizing the risk of flooding downstream.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Galestown Millpond serves as a valuable case study in sustainable water management and recreational development. By balancing the needs of irrigation, recreation, and dam safety, this reservoir exemplifies the importance of responsible stewardship of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its tranquil waters and ecological significance, Galestown Millpond stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water, climate, and human activities in shaping our landscapes.
Years Modified |
2008 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Gales Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44.4 |
Drainage Area |
8.1 |
Nid Storage |
228 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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.
Galestown Millpond (Galestown-Reliance Road)
Dogwood Lane Sussex County
Tussock
Craigs Pond
Horseys Pond
Records Pond
Lake Chambers