Frost Pond (Mlk Jr. Hwy) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frost Pond (Mlk Jr.


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Summary

Hwy) is a dam located in Glenarden, Maryland, along Beaverdam Creek. Built in 1988 for flood risk reduction, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and stretches 415 feet in length. Despite its important purpose, the dam is currently rated as having poor condition assessment, with a significant hazard potential.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency, Frost Pond is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure public safety. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are still pending updates, indicating a potential area for improvement in disaster preparedness. With a moderate risk level and a history of modifications, Frost Pond remains a key structure in the local water resource management system, demanding ongoing attention and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure community safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship, Frost Pond offers a compelling case study. As a critical piece of flood risk reduction infrastructure in Prince George's County, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in a changing climate. With its unique design features and historical context, Frost Pond presents a rich opportunity for exploration and discussion on the importance of proactive maintenance and planning in safeguarding our communities against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Beaverdam Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

4

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.