Blairs Valley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blairs Valley Dam, also known as Indian Springs Wildlife Management Area, is a state-owned earth dam located in Washington County, Maryland.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, the dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches 670 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 679 acre-feet and a surface area of 32.2 acres. Situated on the Little Conococheague Creek, the primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering opportunities for water-based activities in the surrounding area.
Despite its recreational benefits, Blairs Valley Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated as being in poor condition, with a moderate risk assessment. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 160 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 4150 cubic feet per second. With the last inspection conducted in November 2021 and a frequency of one inspection per year, the dam is subject to state regulation and enforcement by the Maryland Dam Safety agency.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Blairs Valley Dam can explore its historical significance, construction details, and the ongoing efforts to address its maintenance and safety concerns. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam serves as a focal point for environmental monitoring and risk management measures in the region. With its unique design and location, Blairs Valley Dam offers a compelling case study for understanding the intersection of water infrastructure, recreational use, and dam safety regulations in Maryland.
Years Modified |
1983 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
670 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
Little Conococheague Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32.2 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
679 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
34 |
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.
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