Foreman Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Foreman Branch Dam, also known as Grasslands Plantation, is a private-owned structure located in Queen Anne's County, Maryland.


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Summary

This Earth dam, constructed in 1955, serves primarily for recreation purposes along the Foreman Branch river. Standing at a height of 7 feet with a length of 628 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet and a surface area of 71 acres.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency, Foreman Branch Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 24 feet, ensuring a maximum discharge of 548 cubic feet per second during periods of heavy rainfall. The dam has a low hazard potential and has undergone structural modifications in 2000. Despite being labeled as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, Foreman Branch Dam continues to be a valuable asset in Buckingham Wharf, Maryland. It stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, serving as a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Years Modified

2000 - Structural

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

628

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Foreman Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

71

Drainage Area

7.1

Nid Storage

320

Outlet Gates

Flap - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
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.