Lower Lake Royer
Key Takeaway
Lower Lake Royer is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1898 and is 128 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 | 19 ft (taller than 39.6% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1898 (128 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00070 |
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
Washington Co Commissioners
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Lake Royer
Washington, MD
Low Hazard 12 ftWohelo Lake
Franklin, PA
Significant Hazard 28 ftComet Lake
Franklin, PA
Significant Hazard 38 ftWarner Gap Hollow Dam
Washington, MD
High Hazard 65 ftHunting Creek Dam
Frederick, MD
High Hazard 79 ftSummit Lake Church Camp Dam
Frederick, MD
Low Hazard 15 ftSmithsburg Reservoir
Washington, MD
Significant Hazard 16 ftEmmitsburg Dam
Frederick, MD
High Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Lake Royer?
Lower Lake Royer 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 Lower Lake Royer?
Lower Lake Royer is owned by Washington Co Commissioners (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Lake Royer built?
Lower Lake Royer was completed in 1898, making it 128 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 Lower Lake Royer?
Lower Lake Royer 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 Lower Lake Royer?
Lower Lake Royer has a dam height of 19 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 Lower Lake Royer last inspected?
Lower Lake Royer was last inspected on April 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.