Lake Arbor (Lake Arbor Way) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Arbor (Lake Arbor Way), also known as Northampton Dam, is a picturesque reservoir located in Kettering/Watkins Reg.


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Summary

Park in Prince George's County, Maryland. Built in 1971 by Greenhorne and O'Mara, this local government-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a dam height of 38 feet and a length of 600 feet, the lake has a storage capacity of 520 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres, providing ample space for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency, Lake Arbor poses a high hazard potential due to its proximity to the Western Branch-TR river/stream. Despite its fair structural condition, regular inspections are conducted to ensure public safety and prevent potential risks. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 18 feet, can discharge a maximum of 667 cubic feet per second in case of emergency. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3 out of 5), the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are being continuously evaluated and updated to meet safety guidelines and protect the surrounding community.

Overall, Lake Arbor (Lake Arbor Way) stands as a vital water resource in Maryland, offering both recreational opportunities and essential flood control functions. Its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while its regulated operation and maintenance ensure the safety of the local residents. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Lake Arbor becomes increasingly crucial in safeguarding the environment and enhancing resilience against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Western Branch-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

520

Outlet Gates

Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.