Jessup Prison Dam
Key Takeaway
Jessup Prison Dam is classified as significant hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1982 and is 44 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 77.2% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 760 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 75 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1982 (44 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1982 |
| NID ID | MD00296 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
MD House of Corrections
State Government
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Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Jessup Prison Dam?
Jessup Prison 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 Jessup Prison Dam?
Jessup Prison Dam is owned by MD House of Corrections (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Jessup Prison Dam built?
Jessup Prison Dam was completed in 1982, making it 44 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 Jessup Prison Dam?
Jessup Prison 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 Jessup Prison Dam?
Jessup Prison Dam has a dam height of 31 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 Jessup Prison Dam last inspected?
Jessup Prison Dam was last inspected on December 31, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.