Atkisson Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Atkisson Reservoir, located in Edgewood, Maryland, is a concrete gravity dam designed by Whitman, Requardt & Smith and completed in 1942.


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Summary

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this reservoir serves as a vital water supply source in the region, with a storage capacity of 2,510 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 928 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 56 feet, with a hydraulic height of 59 feet, and spans a length of 439 feet across the Winters Run.

The reservoir is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and undergoes regular inspections, with a hazard potential rated as high and a moderate risk assessment level. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 210 feet wide, helps manage water discharge during peak flow events. Although the condition assessment is not available, the emergency action plan was last revised in 2014, ensuring preparedness for any potential risks or emergencies. With its significant role in water supply and its strategic location within the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Atkisson Reservoir stands as a key asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

439

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

Winters Run

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

128

Hydraulic Height

59

Drainage Area

44

Nid Storage

2510

Structural Height

56

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

59
       
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.