Powellville Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Powellville Dam, located in Maryland along Adkins Race, serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the region.
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Summary
Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a length of 550 feet, with a storage capacity of 186 acre-feet. The dam also caters to recreational activities in addition to its primary purpose of water supply, making it a versatile resource for the community.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Powellville Dam underwent structural modifications in 2003 to ensure its safety and stability. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, enforcing state jurisdiction and permitting requirements. The dam's spillway, with a width of 180 feet, helps regulate water discharge during peak flows, ensuring the safety of downstream areas.
Although not currently rated for its condition, Powellville Dam remains a vital asset in Wicomico County, Maryland. With its strategic location and functional design, this dam exemplifies the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding communities against potential risks and emergencies.
Years Modified |
2003 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
Adkins Race |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
32 |
Nid Storage |
186 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Powellville Dam