Snell Estates Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Snell Estates, also known as Snells Nursery, is a private property located in Carroll County, Maryland, specifically in the city of Mt Airy.
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Summary
This recreational dam, completed in 1979, serves the primary purposes of flood risk reduction and recreation. The dam, classified as an Earth type with stone core, stands at a height of 14 feet and has a length of 1400 feet. The reservoir created by the dam has a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet, with a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 0.3 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Snell Estates dam is in poor condition as of the latest assessment in April 2021. The inspection frequency is set at every 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in February 2019. The dam's risk assessment is classified as moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. While the dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, it is regulated and permitted by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, with inspection, enforcement, and permitting services provided by the state.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Snell Estates will find it to be an intriguing site for both recreational activities and flood risk management. The dam's location along Offstream-Middle Run, its design by Weller Assoc., and its proximity to the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers make it a significant landmark in the area. However, the dam's poor condition and moderate risk level highlight the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure in Carroll County, Maryland.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Offstream-Middle Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Snell Estates
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