Western Maryland 4h Center Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Garrett, Maryland, the Western Maryland 4H Center, also known as Pleasant Valley Run Dam, is a state-owned recreational facility that was completed in 1937 by the USDA Land Utilz.Div (WPA, CCC).


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated on Pleasant Valley Run, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches for 598 feet, offering a serene surface area of 20 acres for visitors to enjoy. With a storage capacity of 270 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.9 square miles, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a low hazard potential for the surrounding area.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, the Western Maryland 4H Center is currently assessed to be in poor condition, prompting the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency to conduct regular inspections to assess its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for risk management measures to ensure the safety of the dam and the surrounding community. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 52 feet, and is equipped with slide (sluice gate) outlet gates for water flow control.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Western Maryland 4H Center offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of recreational amenities and dam infrastructure. As efforts are made to improve the condition of the dam and enhance its safety measures, there is a chance for stakeholders to engage in discussions around sustainable water management practices and the role of dams in supporting local ecosystems. With its picturesque location and historical significance, the Western Maryland 4H Center serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing human recreation with environmental conservation in water resource management.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

598

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Pleasant Valley Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

2.9

Nid Storage

270

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.