Jennings Randolph Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jennings Randolph Dam, located in Garrett County, Maryland, is a crucial structure managed by the U.S.


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Summary

Army Corps of Engineers to reduce flood risk for downstream communities along the North Branch Potomac River. Completed in 1981, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 296 feet and has a storage capacity of 130,900 acre-feet. While the dam plays a vital role in mitigating flooding, there are still potential risks associated with high-volume water releases from the spillway during significant storm events.

In the event of a breach, communities such as Bloomington, Luke, Westernport, and Cumberland could face devastating flooding, with swift and deep floodwaters causing extensive damage to properties and infrastructure. To manage these risks, the USACE implements regular inspections, maintenance activities, and emergency response exercises to ensure the dam's integrity and readiness for any potential flood event. Despite the risks, the USACE's proactive risk management measures and preparedness efforts help safeguard downstream communities and reduce the likelihood of catastrophic flooding incidents.

Overall, Jennings Randolph Dam serves as a critical flood risk reduction infrastructure, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to protect communities along the North Branch Potomac River from the impacts of potential dam-related flooding events.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

2130

Dam Height

296

River Or Stream

NORTH BRANCH POTOMAC RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

965

Hydraulic Height

290.9

Drainage Area

263

Nid Storage

130900

Structural Height

296

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0, Tainter (radial) - 0, Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

296
       
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.