Dry Run Detention Dam And Culvert Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dry Run Detention Dam and Culvert, also known as The Bullpen, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Allegany County, Maryland.


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Summary

Built in 1949 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 250 feet. With a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing the flow of Wills Creek-TR and protecting the city of Cumberland from potential flooding events.

Despite its importance in flood control, Dry Run Detention Dam and Culvert is facing challenges in terms of its structural integrity. A recent inspection in April 2021 reported its condition as poor, with a high hazard potential. The dam is categorized as having a moderate risk level, highlighting the need for risk management measures to ensure its continued functionality. As a state-regulated structure, it undergoes regular inspections and permitting to address any potential safety concerns.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and support efforts to maintain and improve the resilience of structures like Dry Run Detention Dam and Culvert. By staying informed about its condition, advocating for necessary repairs and upgrades, and promoting sustainable water management practices, we can contribute to the protection of communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and flooding.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Wills Creek-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

66

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.