Teels Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Teels Lake Dam, located in Shorewood Estates, Kent County, Maryland, serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along Swantown Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by Law Engineering, this privately owned earth dam stands at 11 feet tall and spans 200 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 376 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by Maryland Dam Safety to ensure its fair condition and compliance with state regulations.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 45 feet and has a moderate risk assessment rating. While it has not undergone major modifications since 2004, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are currently undisclosed. With a drainage area of 3.8 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, Teels Lake Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Teels Lake Dam's strategic location and design make it a significant asset for water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water levels and weather patterns, the dam's role in flood risk reduction and its adherence to state regulatory standards are essential for protecting the community of Shorewood Estates and ensuring the safety of residents downstream along Swantown Creek.

Years Modified

2004 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Swantown Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Drainage Area

3.8

Nid Storage

376

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.