Umbc Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Umbc Dam, also known as Umbc Liberty Pond, is an earth dam located in Baltimore, Maryland, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Herbert Run.


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Summary

Built in 1976 by Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, the dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 255 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are managed effectively.

With a spillway width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge of 11,700 cubic feet per second, the Umbc Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite being modified in 1997 for hydraulic improvements, the dam continues to be an essential piece of infrastructure in protecting the surrounding community from potential inundation events. While the dam is currently rated as having a moderate risk level, ongoing risk management measures are in place to safeguard against any potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Umbc Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and flood risk reduction. Located in Arbutus, Maryland, the dam's design and construction by Rummel, Klepper & Kahl demonstrate the importance of proactive maintenance and inspection protocols in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of critical infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water levels, understanding the role of dams like Umbc in managing flood risks becomes increasingly vital for sustainable water resource management.

Years Modified

1997 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Herbert Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

185

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.