Claiborne Gooch Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Claiborne Gooch, located in Queen Anne's County, Maryland, is a privately owned Earth dam built in 1982 by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, standing at 8 feet tall and spanning 850 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 84 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 19 acres. It serves as a vital resource for the local community, offering recreational opportunities while also providing flood control and water storage for Island Creek.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Claiborne Gooch has not undergone a recent condition assessment, and there is limited information available regarding its emergency action plan and risk management measures. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose potential risks in the event of extreme weather events or structural degradation. Continuous monitoring and maintenance are crucial to ensuring the safety and longevity of the dam, especially in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource challenges.
As a passionate advocate for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Claiborne Gooch presents an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in discussions around sustainable dam management practices, emergency preparedness, and the importance of investing in resilient infrastructure. By prioritizing regular inspections, updating emergency action plans, and implementing risk mitigation strategies, we can better protect our communities and natural resources from the impacts of climate change and ensure the long-term viability of structures like Claiborne Gooch for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
Island Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
1.9 |
Nid Storage |
84 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
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.
Claiborne Gooch
Cliffs City Road 4652, Kent County