Monocacy Boulevard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Monocacy Boulevard Dam, also known as the I-70 Dam, is a state-owned structure located in the City of Frederick, Maryland.


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Summary

This earth dam was completed in 2011 and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Carroll Creek-TR. Standing at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, the dam spans a length of 800 feet and has a storage capacity of 194.6 acre-feet.

The dam's spillway, two feet wide, is of the controlled type, ensuring efficient water release during peak flow events. Despite a fair condition assessment in 2021, the dam's hazard potential is considered high, with a very high risk assessment ranking (1). The structure is inspected every three years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2019, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and continued flood protection for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, Monocacy Boulevard Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding communities in the region. Its strategic location and design highlight the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, making it a key asset for enthusiasts seeking to understand the dynamics of dam infrastructure in addressing environmental challenges in Maryland.

Year Completed

2011

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Carroll Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.61

Nid Storage

194.6

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

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.