The Wheaton Branch Storm Water Management project in Silver Spring, Maryland, is a critical infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction along the Sligo Creek-TR river.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1979 by Matz, Childs & Assoc. Inc, this earth dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 1174 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 196 acre-feet. Despite its importance in mitigating flooding in the area, the dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 520 feet, and the outlet gates consist of a slide (sluice gate) system with no locks. While the structure has undergone modifications in 1990 for hydraulic reasons, its overall risk assessment is deemed moderate. With the last inspection conducted in December 2021 and regular inspections scheduled every year, there is a need for continued monitoring and potential maintenance to ensure the Wheaton Branch Storm Water Management remains effective in its flood risk reduction purpose for the surrounding Montgomery County community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of the Wheaton Branch Storm Water Management project provides insight into the challenges and importance of managing stormwater in urban areas. As climate change intensifies, the resilience of such infrastructure will be crucial in protecting communities from the increasing threats of flooding. Efforts to address the poor condition assessment and high hazard potential of the dam will be vital in safeguarding the local environment and population from potential disasters.
Years Modified |
1990 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
1174 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
Sligo Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.1 |
Drainage Area |
1.2 |
Nid Storage |
196 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Loop D
|
||
Camp Loop C
|
||
Greenbelt Park
|
||
Camp Loop B
|
||
Camp Loop A
|
||
Marsden Tract Campground
|