Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) in Tobytown, Maryland, is a local government-owned earth dam designed by Mills, Petticord & Mills and completed in 1967 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
This picturesque dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 825 feet, creating a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet. With a surface area of 10.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.4 square miles, the dam serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy water-based activities in the Muddy Branch-TR river system.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 10 feet, is uncontrolled, and the structure is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in June 2018. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) offers a serene setting for recreation while also serving as a vital water resource in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) presents an intriguing example of human-made infrastructure harmoniously integrated into the natural landscape. As a key component of the local water management system, this dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also contributes to flood control and water storage in the area. With its stone core and rock foundation, the dam exemplifies engineering ingenuity in balancing human needs with environmental considerations. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the design, maintenance, and regulation of dams like Lake Nirvana Dam becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
825 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Muddy Branch-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
29 |