Emmitsburg Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Emmitsburg Dam, located in Frederick, Maryland, serves as a vital water supply source for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1950 by the Emmitsburg Water Co., this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a length of 487 feet. With a storage capacity of 222 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 110 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Situated on Turkey Creek, the dam has a surface area of 13.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.8 square miles. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 70 feet, helps regulate the water flow during periods of heavy rainfall. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Emmitsburg Dam is in satisfactory condition and undergoes regular inspections by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency.

With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's emergency action plan ensures preparedness for any potential incidents. While the dam has not been modified since 1984, both structurally and hydraulically, it continues to fulfill its primary purpose of providing a reliable water supply. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of maintaining and safeguarding dams like Emmitsburg Dam is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of our water infrastructure.

Years Modified

1984 - Hydraulic, 1984 - Structural

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

487

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Turkey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.5

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

222

Outlet Gates

Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.