Burba Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burba Lake Dam, also known as Kelly's Pool, is a federal-owned structure located in Odenton, Maryland.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1927 by the US Army, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 800 feet in length. The primary purpose of Burba Lake Dam is for fire protection and as a small fish pond, serving the surrounding community in Anne Arundel County.

Managed by the US Army, Burba Lake Dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities in the area. Despite its age, Burba Lake Dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a key component of the local water management system, Burba Lake Dam is a symbol of the collaboration between federal and state agencies to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Maryland. With its picturesque location and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the vital role that infrastructure plays in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change on our environment.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

16

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

1

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.