Potomac Dam No. 5
Key Takeaway
Potomac Dam No. 5 is classified as significant hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1830 and is 196 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 41.2% in MD) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 490 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,100 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 340,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1830 (196 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1998 |
| NID ID | MD00138 |
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
DOI NPS
Federal Government
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Low Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Potomac Dam No. 5?
Potomac Dam No. 5 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 Potomac Dam No. 5?
Potomac Dam No. 5 is owned by DOI NPS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Potomac Dam No. 5 built?
Potomac Dam No. 5 was completed in 1830, making it 196 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 Potomac Dam No. 5?
Potomac Dam No. 5 serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Other, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Potomac Dam No. 5?
Potomac Dam No. 5 has a dam height of 20 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 Potomac Dam No. 5 last inspected?
Potomac Dam No. 5 was last inspected on July 27, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.