Fairlee Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Fairlee Lake, also known as Fish Hatchery Pond, is a private water resource located in Kent County, Maryland.


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Summary

This hydroelectric reservoir was completed in 1828 and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a dam height of 20 feet and a length of 400 feet, Fairlee Lake has a storage capacity of 254 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25.8 acres.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Fairlee Lake has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam, primarily made of concrete and gravity design, underwent a structural modification in 1972 to ensure its safety and reliability. The reservoir is situated along Fairlee Creek-TR and falls under the jurisdiction of the Philadelphia District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Fairlee Lake a fascinating site to explore due to its historical significance, recreational opportunities, and role in sustainable energy production. With its scenic surroundings and vital water supply function, Fairlee Lake showcases the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in managing our precious water resources.

Years Modified

1972 - Structural

Year Completed

1828

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Fairlee Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

25.8

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

254

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

20
       
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.