Liberty Dam
Key Takeaway
Liberty Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 175 ft (taller than 99.3% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 704 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 177.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 132.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,106 acres |
| Drainage Area | 164 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 100,148 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1953 |
| NID ID | MD00003 |
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
Baltimore City DPW Reservoir Section
Local Government
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Low Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Liberty Dam?
Liberty 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 Liberty Dam?
Liberty Dam is owned by Baltimore City DPW Reservoir Section (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Liberty Dam built?
Liberty Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Liberty Dam?
Liberty Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Liberty Dam?
Liberty Dam has a dam height of 175 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 Liberty Dam last inspected?
Liberty Dam was last inspected on June 13, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.