Upper Lake Royer, located in Rouzerville, PA, is a historic earth dam built in 1898 by the US Navy DOD USA to serve as a water supply source for the local government of Washington County, Maryland.
Wind
Humidity
With a height of 12 feet and a length of 550 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. It is primarily used for irrigation and water supply purposes, drawing water from Falls Creek-TR to meet the needs of the surrounding area.
Managed by the Maryland Dam Safety regulatory agency, Upper Lake Royer has undergone structural modifications in 1993 to ensure its continued functionality and safety. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 35 feet and can discharge up to 350 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections every 5 years to monitor its integrity and address any maintenance needs. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan is expected to follow established guidelines to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the history and management of dams will find Upper Lake Royer a fascinating case study. Its strategic location, engineering design, and operational details offer valuable insights into the role of dams in providing essential water resources for communities while also highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight and risk management to ensure their long-term sustainability. With its moderate risk assessment and ongoing monitoring, Upper Lake Royer serves as a critical infrastructure for water supply and irrigation in the region, demonstrating the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in managing water resources.
Years Modified |
1993 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Falls Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
1.6 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |