Centennial Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Centennial Park Dam, located in Columbia, Maryland, was completed in 1985 by Rummel, Klepper & Kahl and is primarily owned by the local government.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 42 feet tall and stretches out over 1025 feet, serving the critical purpose of flood risk reduction along the Little Patuxent River. With a storage capacity of 1519 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 510 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 2500 feet, is uncontrolled and can handle a maximum discharge of 13,897 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of April 2021 was deemed satisfactory. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, which oversees its inspection, enforcement, and permitting processes. This vital infrastructure not only mitigates flood risks but also contributes to the overall water management strategy in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Centennial Park Dam to be a fascinating structure that combines engineering excellence with environmental stewardship. Its strategic location and design make it a key player in the sustainable management of water resources in Howard County, Maryland. As climate change continues to impact water availability and flood patterns, the importance of structures like Centennial Park Dam in maintaining water security and mitigating risks cannot be understated.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

1025

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

Little Patuxent River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

3.5

Nid Storage

1519

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.