Fairfield East Dam
Key Takeaway
Fairfield East Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 2004 and is 22 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 | 18 ft (taller than 36.5% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 960 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2004 (22 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2013 |
| NID ID | MD00379 |
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
Buchanan Partners, LLC
Private
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High Hazard 99 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fairfield East Dam?
Fairfield East 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 Fairfield East Dam?
Fairfield East Dam is owned by Buchanan Partners, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fairfield East Dam built?
Fairfield East Dam was completed in 2004, making it 22 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 Fairfield East Dam?
Fairfield East 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 Fairfield East Dam?
Fairfield East Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Fairfield East Dam last inspected?
Fairfield East Dam was last inspected on July 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.