Prettyboy Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Roberts Field Basin 2 (North Woods Trail Near Trophy Drive) Roberts Field Basin 3 (Sycamore Drive)
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Prettyboy Dam, located in Monkton, Maryland, stands as a testament to innovative engineering and the vital role of water resource management.
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Summary
This gravity dam, completed in 1936, serves as a crucial water supply source for the region, with a storage capacity of 90,100 acre-feet and a normal storage of 60,100 acre-feet. The dam's construction on rock foundations and buttress core types highlight its robust design, standing at a height of 155 feet and stretching 692 feet in length.
The Gunpowder Falls, the river it impounds, benefits not only from the dam's water supply function but also offers recreational opportunities to visitors. The dam's spillway, with a width of 274 feet, ensures controlled water release during periods of high discharge. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's fair condition assessment and regular inspections by the Maryland Dam Safety agency ensure its continued safe operation. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the community and environment.
With its rich history, strategic location, and significant impact on water resources and climate, Prettyboy Dam serves as a symbol of sustainable water management practices. Its role in supporting local government initiatives and regulations underscores the collaborative efforts needed to protect and preserve our precious water resources for future generations. As a focal point for both water supply and recreation, Prettyboy Dam stands as a shining example of responsible dam engineering and management in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Years Modified |
2012 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
692 |
Dam Height |
155 |
River Or Stream |
Gunpowder Falls |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
1500 |
Drainage Area |
80 |
Nid Storage |
90100 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
155 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Prettyboy Dam