Cox Creek Dmcf Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cox Creek Dmcf, located in Glen Burnie, Maryland, is a state-regulated earth dam completed in 1960 with a height of 36 feet and a length of 7500 feet.


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Summary

The dam is primarily designed for flood control and water storage purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 4000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 3500 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Patapsco River-OS and is under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Cox Creek Dmcf underwent modification in 1995 to enhance its seismic resilience. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is equipped with needle outlet gates. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in December 2016, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every two years. The risk assessment for Cox Creek Dmcf is moderate, indicating a potential for moderate consequences in the event of a dam failure.

Overall, Cox Creek Dmcf serves as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Its strategic location and design play a vital role in protecting downstream communities from flooding and ensuring a stable water supply. With ongoing state oversight and regular inspections, Cox Creek Dmcf continues to fulfill its intended purpose effectively while mitigating potential risks associated with dam operations.

Years Modified

1995 - Seismic

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

7500

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Patapsco River-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

116

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

4000

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.