Indian Acres Of The Chesapeake Bay (Holly Drive) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Indian Acres of The Chesapeake Bay (Holly Drive) is a privately owned earth dam located in Cecil, Maryland, along Dowdel Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1973 by Talbot, Wermers & Assoc., this dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, with a storage capacity of 245 acre-feet and a surface area of 17.5 acres. The dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a spillway width of 12 feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Indian Acres of The Chesapeake Bay (Holly Drive) has been deemed to be in unsatisfactory condition as of the most recent assessment in April 2021. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, it is crucial for stakeholders to implement proper risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

While the dam currently poses a moderate risk, the implementation of effective risk management measures and regular inspections can help mitigate any potential hazards associated with the structure. As a focal point for recreation in the area, Indian Acres of The Chesapeake Bay (Holly Drive) serves as a vital resource for the community, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its structural integrity and ensuring the safety of all those who enjoy its recreational offerings.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Dowdel Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.5

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

245

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.