T. Howard Duckett Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The T.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Howard Duckett Dam, also known as Duckett Dam or Rocky Gorge Dam, is a captivating structure located in Laurel, Maryland along the Patuxent River. This buttress dam was completed in 1953 and stands at a height of 139 feet, with a length of 1965 feet. Its primary purpose is water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 17,000 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 59,000 acre-feet.

Managed by the local government, the T. Howard Duckett Dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures. Despite its fair condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management and emergency preparedness. The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a width of 190 feet, and it has undergone modifications in both hydraulic and structural aspects in 2016.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the engineering feats and the crucial role this dam plays in supplying water to the surrounding area. Its location in Howard County, Maryland, and the scenic beauty of the Patuxent River make it a valuable asset for both recreational activities and ensuring water security for the community. With its rich history and ongoing maintenance efforts, the T. Howard Duckett Dam serves as a symbol of responsible water resource management in the region.

Years Modified

2016 - Hydraulic, 2016 - Structural

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

1965

Dam Height

139

River Or Stream

Patuxent River

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

773

Drainage Area

132

Nid Storage

59000

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

139
       
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.