Nestled in the charming town of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, the Lake Ridge Community Pond Dam, also known as Gordon Farm Pond or Hickory Hills Pond, is a private earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1969, this dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, but also supports fish and wildlife habitat and recreational activities. With a height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 20 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres.
Situated along Fishing Creek, the Lake Ridge Community Pond Dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of April 2021 was deemed fair. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and needle outlet gates. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate (3), indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.
Adorned with picturesque views and providing essential water resources for the surrounding area, the Lake Ridge Community Pond Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing our water infrastructure in harmony with the environment. With Steny H. Hoyer representing the area in Congress, this dam serves as a vital piece of the local ecosystem, supporting both agricultural and recreational activities while ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
Years Modified |
2001 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
285 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
Fishing Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
154 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |