Lake Placid Dam (Edison Park Drive) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Placid Dam (Edison Park Drive), also known as National Geographic Lake or General Electric Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Montgomery, Maryland.


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Summary

Built in 1963 by James H. Ludlow Assoc., this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches across 1040 feet, serving primarily for recreation and water supply purposes. With a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.5 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in the Muddy Branch-TR watershed.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and significant hazard potential, Lake Placid Dam has undergone structural modifications in 2009 to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in April 2021. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam has not experienced any significant incidents, but emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to handle any potential emergencies effectively.

Lake Placid Dam serves as a vital recreational and water supply resource in Tobytown, contributing to the local community's quality of life. Its historical significance and environmental impact make it a key asset in the region, highlighting the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance to safeguard water resources and mitigate risks associated with dam infrastructure.

Years Modified

2009 - Structural

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1040

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Muddy Branch-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.