Sunderland Railroad Embankment Pond, located in Calvert County, Maryland, is a historic earth dam structure completed in 1850 with a height of 25 feet and a length of 200 feet.
Wind
Humidity
This pond serves as a water resource for the local area, with a normal storage capacity of 16 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its historical significance, the condition assessment of the Sunderland Railroad Embankment Pond dam is currently rated as poor, with a low hazard potential. The dam has a moderate risk level and is in need of maintenance and improvement to meet regulatory standards. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 18 feet, posing a potential risk in case of high discharge events. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the condition of this dam and advocate for necessary upgrades to ensure the safety and efficiency of this critical infrastructure.
With its stone core and rock and soil foundations, the Sunderland Railroad Embankment Pond dam is a unique structure that plays a key role in managing water flow in the Fishing Creek-TR watershed. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial to prioritize the maintenance and modernization of aging dams like this one to enhance resilience and safeguard communities from potential flooding and other water-related disasters. By staying informed and engaged in the upkeep of critical infrastructure like the Sunderland Railroad Embankment Pond, enthusiasts can contribute to a sustainable and secure water future for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
Fishing Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
48.6 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |