Smithsburg Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Smithsburg Reservoir, located in Cavetown, Maryland, is a crucial water resource managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1881, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans 2000 feet, with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. The reservoir covers 6.6 surface acres and serves a drainage area of 1.9 square miles, with a normal storage level of 61 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Smithsburg Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of April 2021. Although there is no spillway, the reservoir is equipped with valve outlet gates for water management. In terms of risk assessment, it is considered to have a high risk level of 2, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness.

Water and climate enthusiasts interested in Smithsburg Reservoir will find it a fascinating example of historical water infrastructure in Maryland. Its location on Beaver Creek-OS, association with the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, and the oversight by state regulatory agencies make it a valuable case study for understanding the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its rich history, unique design features, and ongoing risk management measures, Smithsburg Reservoir offers a compelling insight into the challenges and opportunities of safeguarding water resources in a changing climate.

Years Modified

2010 - Other

Year Completed

1881

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Beaver Creek-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.6

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

83

Outlet Gates

Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.