Lake Linganore Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Lake Linganore, also known as Brosius Dam, is a private recreational water source located in Pinecliff, Maryland.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1972 by the Robert B. Balter Co., this earth dam stands at a height of 63 feet and spans 750 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 7,900 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 220 acres. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with secondary functions including water supply for the area.
Despite its scenic beauty and recreational value, Lake Linganore poses a high hazard potential due to its unsatisfactory condition assessment. The dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with the last inspection conducted in July 2021 and a structural modification carried out in 2005. The spillway, with a width of 120 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols are in place to manage its operations and safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Linganore presents an intriguing case of balancing recreational benefits with the challenges of maintaining dam safety and risk management. With Linganore Creek serving as its source and a drainage area of 82.3 square miles, this picturesque reservoir in Frederick County, Maryland, serves as a vital water supply and recreational hub, albeit with ongoing concerns about its structural integrity and hazard potential. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards, Lake Linganore remains a focal point for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Years Modified |
2005 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
Linganore Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
220 |
Drainage Area |
82.3 |
Nid Storage |
7900 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
63 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Gambrill State Park
|
||
Little Bennett Campground
|
||
Little Bennett Regional Park
|
||
Turner Farm
|
Lake Linganore