Wye Mills Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Boyd Farm Pond Dodd Farm Pond
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
The Wye Mills Dam, located in Wye Mills, Maryland, is a historic structure completed in 1682 along the Wye East River.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the state of Maryland, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, including flood risk reduction. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 832 feet, with a storage capacity of 1224 acre-feet and a drainage area of 10.2 square miles.
With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the Wye Mills Dam is inspected regularly by the Maryland Dam Safety agency to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 107 feet and has not been modified in recent years. The risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential issues.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Wye Mills Dam to be a fascinating structure with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Its role in flood risk reduction and recreation, along with its unique design and location, make it a notable feature along the Wye East River in Queen Anne's County, Maryland.
Year Completed |
1682 |
Dam Length |
832 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Wye East River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
61.5 |
Drainage Area |
10.2 |
Nid Storage |
1224 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Wye Mills Dam
Coveys Landing