Cosca Regional Park Dam
Key Takeaway
Cosca Regional Park Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 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 | 28 ft (taller than 70.5% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 515 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 356 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 76 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 17,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1970 |
| NID ID | MD00064 |
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
MNCPPC-Cosca Park
Local Government
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High Hazard 44 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cosca Regional Park Dam?
Cosca Regional Park 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 Cosca Regional Park Dam?
Cosca Regional Park Dam is owned by MNCPPC-Cosca Park (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cosca Regional Park Dam built?
Cosca Regional Park Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Cosca Regional Park Dam?
Cosca Regional Park Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, 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 Cosca Regional Park Dam?
Cosca Regional Park Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Cosca Regional Park Dam last inspected?
Cosca Regional Park Dam was last inspected on July 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.