Broad Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Broad Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 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 | 36 ft (taller than 81.5% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 330 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 958 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 254 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 31 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 28,957 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1948 |
| NID ID | MD00017 |
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
Boy Scouts of America-Balt
Private
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High Hazard 260 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Broad Creek Dam?
Broad Creek 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 Broad Creek Dam?
Broad Creek Dam is owned by Boy Scouts of America-Balt (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Broad Creek Dam built?
Broad Creek Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Broad Creek Dam?
Broad Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Broad Creek Dam?
Broad Creek Dam has a dam height of 36 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 Broad Creek Dam last inspected?
Broad Creek Dam was last inspected on December 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.