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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Swains Lock Hiker-Biker Campsite
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Marsden Tract Group Campsite
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Marsden Tract Campground
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Horsepen Branch
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Horsepen Branch Campsite
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Lake Fairfax
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