Lake Louise Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Louise, located in the Savage River State Forest in Maryland, is a picturesque rockfill dam that was completed in 1930 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 355 feet, creating a storage capacity of 389 acre-feet and a surface area of 30.2 acres. The dam is situated on Puzzley Run and is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance.

Despite its scenic beauty, Lake Louise poses a significant hazard potential and has been assessed as in poor condition, prompting a moderate risk level. The dam's condition was last assessed in April 2021, with inspections conducted every three years. In 2001, both hydraulic and structural modifications were carried out to enhance its safety. With an uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge of 532 cubic feet per second, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan are crucial aspects to be monitored and updated regularly.

Lake Louise serves as a vital recreational resource in Garrett County, Maryland, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. As a privately owned structure, its maintenance and upkeep are essential to ensure public safety and enjoyment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and environmental considerations that go into managing this dam within the pristine surroundings of the Savage River State Forest.

Years Modified

2001 - Hydraulic, 2001 - Structural

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

355

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Puzzley Run

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

30.2

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

389

Outlet Gates

Flap - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

21
       
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.