Myrtle Grove Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Myrtle Grove Lake in Charles, Maryland is a state-regulated recreational lake with a dam height of 14 feet and a length of 1800 feet, completed in 1965.


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Summary

The lake has a normal storage capacity of 88 acre-feet, a surface area of 23 acres, and a drainage area of 2.3 square miles. Located in Buteaux Crossing, Myrtle Grove Lake is a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Myrtle Grove Lake has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition, as assessed in April 2021. The dam has undergone modifications in 1998 for hydraulic purposes and is inspected every 5 years to ensure its safety and reliability. In the event of an emergency, the lake is equipped with a valve outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet to manage water flow and mitigate potential risks.

With its serene setting and diverse recreational opportunities, Myrtle Grove Lake serves as a valuable water resource for the local community and a prime destination for nature enthusiasts seeking solace in the beauty of Maryland's natural landscapes. As a well-maintained and regulated facility, the lake offers a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1998 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Mattawoman Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

192

Outlet Gates

Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.