Cranberry Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cranberry Branch Dam, also known as Lucabaugh Mill Reservoir, is a vital water supply structure located in Carroll County, Maryland.


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Summary

Built in 1957 by the Maryland Water Works Co., this earth dam stands 32 feet tall and spans 2400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 437 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the area, with a normal storage capacity of 337 acre-feet and a surface area of 24.3 acres.

Managed by the local government, the Cranberry Branch Dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 4 feet and a maximum discharge rate of 91 cubic feet per second. Despite being assessed as in fair condition, with a significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment remains moderate.

With its strategic location in Cranberry Station, Maryland, and its crucial role in water supply management, the Cranberry Branch Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and preserving water resources amidst changing climate conditions. Its significance in ensuring water security for the region makes it a vital structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Cranberry Branch-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24.3

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

437

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.