The Glen Elyn Upper Dam, located in Fallston, Maryland, is a private recreational dam built in 1975 with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 19.2 feet, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 23 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 3.5 acre-feet. The dam spans 230 feet in length and has a spillway width of 14 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 516 cubic feet per second.
Despite its fair condition assessment in 2021, the Glen Elyn Upper Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a risk assessment rating of moderate. This dam is state-regulated and inspected regularly by Maryland's Dam Safety agency, ensuring that enforcement and permitting requirements are met. The last inspection in November 2020 revealed the dam's structural modifications in 2009, enhancing its resilience and safety measures.
With its picturesque location along the Little Gunpowder Falls, the Glen Elyn Upper Dam serves as a vital recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. While its fair condition may raise some concerns, the dam's ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of this natural resource for future generations to enjoy.
Years Modified |
2009 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
19.2 |
River Or Stream |
Little Gunpower Falls-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |