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