Newpage Westvaco Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Newpage Westvaco Dam, also known as Luke Mill Dam, is a historic structure located in Allegany, Maryland, along the Potomac River.


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Summary

Built in 1913 by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company, this privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 7 feet and stretches 407 feet in length. Its primary purpose is to provide water supply, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a drainage area of 404 square miles.

Despite its age, the Newpage Westvaco Dam is in fair condition and poses a low hazard potential according to recent assessments. It is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, which ensures regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and needle outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,262 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area is at moderate risk of potential hazards, as identified by risk assessments.

Overall, the Newpage Westvaco Dam is an essential component of the water supply infrastructure in the region, serving the community of Luke and beyond. Its historical significance, combined with its functional design and maintained condition, makes it a notable site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of engineering, sustainability, and environmental management.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

407

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Potomac River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

404

Nid Storage

60

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.