Loch Raven Dam
Key Takeaway
Loch Raven Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 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 | 130 ft (taller than 98.6% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 623 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 145.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 72.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,400 acres |
| Drainage Area | 303 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 173,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00002 |
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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What is the hazard classification of Loch Raven Dam?
Loch Raven 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 Loch Raven Dam?
Loch Raven 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 Loch Raven Dam built?
Loch Raven Dam was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Loch Raven Dam?
Loch Raven Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Loch Raven Dam?
Loch Raven Dam has a dam height of 130 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 Loch Raven Dam last inspected?
Loch Raven Dam was last inspected on June 13, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.