Lake Churchill (Wynnfield Drive) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Churchill (Wynnfield Drive) in Montgomery, Maryland, is a picturesque reservoir nestled in the charming city of Little Seneca Lake.


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Summary

This private lake, also known as Churchill Town Sector Dam, was completed in 1971 and spans an impressive 485 meters in length with a dam height of 44 meters. The primary purpose of Lake Churchill is recreation, offering a surface area of 19.6 hectares and a maximum storage capacity of 477 acre-feet.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency, Lake Churchill boasts a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment. The dam is primarily composed of earth and stone materials, with a spillway width of 120 meters for uncontrolled discharge. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has been deemed safe for recreational activities and continues to be a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscape. With regular inspections and enforcement measures in place, Lake Churchill remains a vital resource for the local community.

Visitors to Lake Churchill can explore the serene waters of Little Seneca Creek-TR, engage in recreational activities, and take in the scenic views offered by this man-made reservoir. The dam's design by Matz, Childs & Assoc. Inc/Balter ensures structural integrity and safety, providing a valuable resource for both residents and wildlife in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Lake Churchill stands as a testament to responsible dam management and the importance of sustainable practices in preserving our natural environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

485

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

Little Seneca Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.6

Drainage Area

1.2

Nid Storage

477

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

44
       
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.