Laurel Lakes No 1 (Lower) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Lakes No 1 (Lower) is a dam located in Prince George's, Maryland, with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1986, this Earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 266 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic Bear Branch river and covers a surface area of 13 acres, providing a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Laurel Lakes No 1 (Lower) has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 38 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 3000 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in December 2018.

With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Laurel Lakes No 1 (Lower) is a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Surrounded by natural beauty and offering a peaceful retreat, this dam serves as an important landmark in Maryland's water infrastructure system, providing both enjoyment and essential water management functions for the local community.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Bear Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

2.1

Nid Storage

266

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.