Lake Ashburton Reservoir And Storage Tanks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Ashburton Reservoir and Storage Tanks, also known as Forest Park Reservoir, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Baltimore City, Maryland.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 650 acre-feet. Serving the primary purpose of water supply, this reservoir covers a surface area of 25 acres and has a drainage area of 0.04 square miles, drawing water from the Offstream-Gwynns Run.

Despite its historical significance and importance for water supply, Lake Ashburton Reservoir and Storage Tanks are facing challenges in terms of their condition assessment, with a poor rating and high hazard potential. The last inspection in December 2021 highlighted the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of this critical infrastructure. The dam lacks a spillway, and its outlet gates consist of a slide (sluice gate) with no locks.

Given its high-risk profile and the need for maintenance, Lake Ashburton Reservoir and Storage Tanks require urgent attention and investment to address their deteriorating condition. With the potential for significant impact in the event of a failure, this infrastructure highlights the importance of proactive management and risk mitigation measures to safeguard water resources and ensure the resilience of the surrounding communities in Baltimore City.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

1700

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Offstream-Gwynns Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

750

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.