Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street)
Key Takeaway
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) is classified as significant hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 29 ft (taller than 73.4% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 825 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 104 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 90 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 215 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1967 |
| NID ID | MD00056 |
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
City of Gaithersburg
Local Government
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street)?
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) 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 Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street)?
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) is owned by City of Gaithersburg (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) built?
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Nirvana Dam (Main Street)?
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) 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 Nirvana Dam (Main Street)?
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) has a dam height of 29 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 Nirvana Dam (Main Street) last inspected?
Lake Nirvana Dam (Main Street) was last inspected on April 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.