Montgomery Auto Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Montgomery Auto Park Dam in Fairland, Maryland, stands as a vital structure designed by Charles P.


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Summary

Johnson & Assoc in 1987 for the primary purpose of recreation. This Earth-type dam, with a height of 29 feet and a length of 250 feet, holds a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 0.1 acres. Situated along the Little Paint Branch-TR, the dam's spillway width of 55 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Montgomery Auto Park Dam underwent modifications in 2013 to enhance its hydraulic and structural features. The dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Dam Safety agency, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety regulations. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan (EAP) preparedness play crucial roles in mitigating potential threats and ensuring public safety. As a renowned recreational spot in Montgomery County, the dam serves as a testament to sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges.

Years Modified

2013 - Hydraulic, 2013 - Structural

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Little Paint Branch-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.1

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.