Whiskey Bottom West Swm Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiskey Bottom West Stormwater Management (SWM) facility, located in Howard County, Maryland, serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Patuxent River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1978 by JMT, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its fair condition.

With its primary purpose focused on flood risk reduction, Whiskey Bottom West SWM plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters. Managed by the local government and regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency, this structure demonstrates a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience. The facility's last inspection in January 2021 revealed a satisfactory condition, with a routine inspection frequency of every five years, indicating proactive monitoring and maintenance practices.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic design and functionality of Whiskey Bottom West SWM, which combines engineering expertise with environmental stewardship. As part of a comprehensive approach to managing water flow and reducing flood risks, this stormwater facility exemplifies the importance of sustainable infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change. By maintaining a fair condition assessment and adhering to regulatory standards, Whiskey Bottom West SWM stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Patuxent River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.