Goldberg Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Goldberg Pond, also known as Bernstein Farm Pond, is a privately owned water resource located in Montgomery County, Maryland.


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Summary

Established in 1965, this earth-type dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Hawlings River. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 250 feet, the pond has a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 58 acre-feet.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency, Goldberg Pond has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition of the structure is currently not rated, it underwent structural modifications in 2000 to ensure its continued effectiveness in managing flood risks. The pond's spillway, with a width of 52 feet, is uncontrolled in nature, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of heavy rainfall.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Goldberg Pond for its role in flood risk reduction and its contribution to the overall water management system in the region. As a privately owned structure with state-regulated oversight, the pond stands as an example of effective collaboration between private owners and regulatory agencies to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in Maryland.

Years Modified

2000 - Structural

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Hawlings River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

106

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.