Laurel Lumber Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Lumber Dam, also known as Savage Stone Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Howard County, Maryland.


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Summary

Designed by Steve Huber of FSH Associates, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 350 feet in length. Completed in 2007, its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving as a critical piece of infrastructure along the Dorsey Run-TR river system.

With a maximum storage capacity of 6.26 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 0.76 acre-feet, Laurel Lumber Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam's spillway, with a width of 40 feet, ensures controlled water release during periods of high flow. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan in place to mitigate risk.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Laurel Lumber Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. From its Earth core and Stone foundation to its uncontrolled spillway and needle outlet gates, this structure exemplifies the intricate balance between flood risk reduction and environmental stewardship. As a key component of Maryland's dam safety regulations, Laurel Lumber Dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Dorsey Run-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.4

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

6.26

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.