Atkisson Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Atkisson Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 56 ft (taller than 93.3% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 439 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 928 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 128 acres |
| Drainage Area | 44 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1970 |
| NID ID | MD00067 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Aberdeen Proving Ground
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Oaks of Harford (Tollgate Road)
Harford, MD
Low Hazard 43 ftHunters Run Swm Dam
Harford, MD
Significant Hazard 30 ftMt. Soma Reservoir
Harford, MD
High Hazard 61 ftLake Serene (Edgewater Drive)
Harford, MD
High Hazard 29 ftVillage of Scots Fancy Swm Pond (Starmount Lane)
Harford, MD
Significant Hazard 27 ftCampus Hills Pond
Harford, MD
Low Hazard 23 ftMartindale Pond
Harford, MD
Significant Hazard 20 ftPriestford Hills
Harford, MD
Low Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Atkisson Reservoir?
Atkisson Reservoir is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Atkisson Reservoir?
Atkisson Reservoir is owned by Aberdeen Proving Ground (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Atkisson Reservoir built?
Atkisson Reservoir was completed in 1942, making it 84 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Atkisson Reservoir?
Atkisson Reservoir serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Atkisson Reservoir?
Atkisson Reservoir has a dam height of 56 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Atkisson Reservoir last inspected?
Atkisson Reservoir was last inspected on September 28, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.