Warfield Range Dam (Hunters Way) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Warfield Range Dam, also known as Hunters Way Dam, is a significant local government-owned structure located in Howard County, Maryland.


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Summary

Constructed in 1980 by McCormick Taylor Assoc, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Middle Patuxent River. The dam is regulated by the Maryland Dam Safety agency and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.

Despite its relatively small size and normal storage capacity of zero, Warfield Range Dam poses a significant hazard potential due to its location and function. However, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2021, the dam continues to effectively meet flood risk reduction objectives. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are currently under review to ensure that the structure remains resilient in the face of potential climate-related challenges.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Warfield Range Dam can appreciate its essential role in protecting the surrounding area from flood risks. With a history of successful flood risk reduction and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive infrastructure management in the face of changing environmental conditions. As efforts continue to strengthen emergency preparedness and risk mitigation strategies, Warfield Range Dam stands as a testament to the critical role of earth dams in safeguarding communities against water-related hazards.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Middle Patuxent River-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.