Emmitsburg Dam
Key Takeaway
Emmitsburg Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 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 | 30 ft (taller than 74.6% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 487 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 222 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 14 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,456 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00018 |
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
Town of Emmitsburg
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 15 ftLake May (Section F)
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High Hazard 22 ftK-Section
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Significant Hazard 12 ftWilliams
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Significant Hazard 39 ftHunting Creek Dam
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High Hazard 79 ftLower Lake Royer
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High Hazard 19 ftUpper Lake Royer
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Low Hazard 12 ftWohelo Lake
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Significant Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Emmitsburg Dam?
Emmitsburg 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 Emmitsburg Dam?
Emmitsburg Dam is owned by Town of Emmitsburg (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Emmitsburg Dam built?
Emmitsburg Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Emmitsburg Dam?
Emmitsburg Dam 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 Emmitsburg Dam?
Emmitsburg Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Emmitsburg Dam last inspected?
Emmitsburg Dam was last inspected on August 5, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.