Greenbelt Dam
Key Takeaway
Greenbelt Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 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 | 22 ft (taller than 50.6% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 640 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 326 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 206 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00008 |
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
City of Greenbelt
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Greenbelt Dam?
Greenbelt 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 Greenbelt Dam?
Greenbelt Dam is owned by City of Greenbelt (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Greenbelt Dam built?
Greenbelt Dam was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Greenbelt Dam?
Greenbelt 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 Greenbelt Dam?
Greenbelt Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Greenbelt Dam last inspected?
Greenbelt Dam was last inspected on May 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.