Blairs Valley Dam
Key Takeaway
Blairs Valley Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 34 ft (taller than 78.9% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 670 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 679 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 486 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00061 |
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
MD DNR Indian Springs WMA
State Government
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Blairs Valley Dam?
Blairs Valley Dam 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 Blairs Valley Dam?
Blairs Valley Dam is owned by MD DNR Indian Springs WMA (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Blairs Valley Dam built?
Blairs Valley Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Blairs Valley Dam?
Blairs Valley Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Blairs Valley Dam?
Blairs Valley Dam has a dam height of 34 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 Blairs Valley Dam last inspected?
Blairs Valley Dam was last inspected on December 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.