Frostburg Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frostburg Reservoir, also known as Big Piney Run, is a picturesque water supply reservoir located in Garrett County, Maryland.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam structure was completed in 1990 by the design firm Whitman, Requardt & Assoc. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 3,276 acre-feet and serves as a vital source of water for the surrounding area.

With a dam height of 46 feet and a length of 1,275 feet, Frostburg Reservoir has a surface area of 110 acres and a drainage area of 11.9 square miles. The reservoir's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 110 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 22,188 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the reservoir's condition is assessed as fair, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Frostburg Reservoir offers a fascinating example of engineering and management in maintaining a critical water supply infrastructure. Its strategic location, design features, and regulatory oversight make it a significant asset in ensuring water security for the region. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and monitoring reservoirs like Frostburg become increasingly important for sustainable water management practices.

Years Modified

1990 - Hydraulic, 1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

1275

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

Big Piney Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

110

Drainage Area

11.9

Nid Storage

3276

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

46
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.