Chesapeake Ranch Estates Dam (Chisolm Trail) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chesapeake Ranch Estates Dam, also known as Chisolm Trail or Robert A.


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Summary

Philipson Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Calvert, Maryland along Mill Creek. Constructed in 1965 by Matz, Childs & Assoc. Inc and Robert B. Balter, this earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and stretches 640 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 2614 acre-feet and a normal storage of 1534 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes and has a spillway width of 82 feet for uncontrolled discharge.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as per the latest assessment in April 2021. Regular inspections by the Maryland Dam Safety agency ensure its safety and regulatory compliance to mitigate any risks. With a moderate risk rating of 3 out of 5, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is continuously updated to meet guidelines and address any potential emergencies effectively. Overall, Chesapeake Ranch Estates Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding communities from flood hazards in the region.

Years Modified

1997 - Other

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

97.3

Drainage Area

2.9

Nid Storage

2614

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.