Painters Mill Levee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Painters Mill Levee, also known as the Music Fair Road Levee, is a key structure in flood risk reduction in Garrison, Maryland.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1989 and designed by the Robert B. Balter Company, this earth dam stands at a height of 13.5 feet and spans a length of 2100 feet. The primary purpose of this levee is flood risk reduction, providing protection for the surrounding areas from potential flooding along the Offstream-Gwynns Falls.

Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, the Painters Mill Levee has a satisfactory condition assessment and is inspected regularly to ensure its effectiveness in mitigating flood hazards. With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, this levee plays a crucial role in protecting the community from the dangers of flooding. Its strategic location and design make it a vital component in the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Baltimore County, Maryland.

As a state-regulated structure with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the Painters Mill Levee is a testament to Maryland's commitment to safeguarding its communities from natural disasters. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this levee serves as a symbol of proactive flood risk reduction measures and the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Years Modified

2017 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

13.5

River Or Stream

Offstream-Gwynns Falls

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, 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.