Johnsons Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Johnsons Pond, also known as Johnsons Lake Dam, is a gravity dam located in Salisbury, Maryland.


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Summary

Built in 1936 by Works Progress Administration (WPA) and Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), this recreational dam spans 580 feet in length and stands at a height of 23 feet. It serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking, attracting visitors from near and far.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Johnsons Pond has been marked with a poor condition assessment and significant hazard potential. The dam's last inspection in January 2022 revealed the need for improvements, with a risk assessment rating it as moderate. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure public safety and water resource management.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Johnsons Pond become crucial. With its location along the North Prong of the Wicomico River, Johnsons Pond plays a role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding area. Efforts to address its poor condition and mitigate risks will be essential for preserving this historic dam and ensuring its continued function in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

North Prong, Wicomico River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

104

Drainage Area

42

Nid Storage

1930

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.