Gudelsky Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gudelsky Pond Dam, also known as the University of Maryland Shady Grove Dam, is a vital structure located in Montgomery, Maryland, designed by Dewberry & Davis.


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Summary

Completed in 1987, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 400 feet in length, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction for the Piney Branch-TR river or stream. With a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.6 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

State-regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Gudelsky Pond Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. Regular inspections, the last conducted in October 2021, ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being locally owned and operated, the dam's impact extends beyond the immediate vicinity, showcasing the interconnectedness of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its strategic location in a shopping center and proximity to urban areas, the dam represents a critical infrastructure for protecting communities from potential flooding events.

As a significant component of the flood risk reduction strategy in the area, Gudelsky Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure to safeguard against environmental challenges. Its construction, oversight, and role in water resource management highlight the collaborative efforts between local government agencies, designers, and regulatory bodies to ensure the safety and resilience of communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Piney Branch-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.6

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

47

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.