Lake Needwood
Key Takeaway
Lake Needwood is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 | 65 ft (taller than 95% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 426 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 7.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 74 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 25,652 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00046 |
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-Upper Rock Creek
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Lake Needwood?
Lake Needwood 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 Lake Needwood?
Lake Needwood is owned by MNCPPC-Upper Rock Creek (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Needwood built?
Lake Needwood was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Lake Needwood?
Lake Needwood 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 Lake Needwood?
Lake Needwood has a dam height of 65 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 Lake Needwood last inspected?
Lake Needwood was last inspected on May 26, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.