Chevy Chase Lakes Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Chevy Chase Lakes, located in Montgomery County, Maryland, is a private earth dam constructed in 1900 by designer Loiderman.


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Summary

This dam stands at 24 feet tall and spans 300 feet in length, with a spillway type classified as "Uncontrolled." The dam's primary purpose and associated structures remain unspecified, but it is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

The dam's hazard potential is deemed "Significant," with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is labeled as "Not Rated," the last inspection conducted in October 2020 suggests ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts. The dam's location near Coquelin Run-TR contributes to its vital role in managing water resources and climate impact in the region, highlighting the importance of its structural integrity and risk management measures. As a focal point within Congressional District 08, Maryland, Chevy Chase Lakes serves as a key component in the area's water infrastructure network.

Overall, Chevy Chase Lakes serves as a historical and functional landmark in Maryland's water resource management system. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, ongoing vigilance and maintenance are crucial to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in mitigating potential climate and water-related challenges. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the status of Chevy Chase Lakes is essential for promoting sustainable and resilient water management practices in the region.

Years Modified

2003 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Coquelin Run-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

0.1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.