Lake Waterford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Waterford Dam, located in Anne Arundel, Maryland, is a vital piece of infrastructure designed by Whitman, Requardt & Assoc.


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Summary

in 1925 for water supply purposes. Standing at 18 feet tall and spanning 507 feet in length, this earth dam on the Magothy River boasts a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 66 acre-feet. The dam serves not only as a crucial water supply source but also offers recreational opportunities, covering a surface area of 12 acres and facilitating a maximum discharge of 2468 cubic feet per second through its uncontrolled spillway.

Despite being deemed in satisfactory condition as of the latest assessment in April 2021, Lake Waterford Dam poses a significant hazard potential, warranting a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam is subject to regular inspections by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is expected to be updated in accordance with guidelines, ensuring public safety and effective risk management measures are in place. With its strategic location and crucial role in water supply, Lake Waterford Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of engineering ingenuity, environmental stewardship, and climate resilience in safeguarding water resources for the community.

Years Modified

1993 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

507

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Magothy River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

5.1

Nid Storage

166

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.