Burba Lake Dam

Anne Arundel, Maryland· Built 1927· Earth· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Burba Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 29.7% in MD)
Dam Length800 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1927 (99 years old)
Year Modified1970
NID IDMD00065

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 27, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MD Dam Safety

Ownership

Fort Meade

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Burba Lake Dam?

Burba Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Burba Lake Dam?

Burba Lake Dam is owned by Fort Meade (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Burba Lake Dam built?

Burba Lake Dam was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Burba Lake Dam?

Burba Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Burba Lake Dam?

Burba Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Burba Lake Dam last inspected?

Burba Lake Dam was last inspected on September 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.