Inspiration Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Inspiration Lake, also known as Kentlands - Lake Inspiration, is a stunning reservoir located in Gaithersburg, Maryland.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this picturesque water body was designed by Woodward Clyde Consultants and completed in 1950. With a dam height of 40 feet and a length of 800 feet, Inspiration Lake boasts a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, making it a vital resource for the surrounding community.

Despite its age, Inspiration Lake is in satisfactory condition and is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and has a high hazard potential due to its location on the Muddy Branch-TR stream. The reservoir serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water supply, and plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. With its beautiful surroundings and strategic importance, Inspiration Lake is a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Overall, Inspiration Lake stands as a testament to effective dam management and environmental stewardship. Its risk assessment categorizes it as high, prompting the implementation of risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards. As a beloved landmark in Montgomery County, Maryland, Inspiration Lake continues to inspire awe and appreciation for the vital role that water resources play in shaping our communities and natural landscapes.

Years Modified

1990 - Hydraulic, 1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Muddy Branch-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

115

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.