Prettyboy Dam
Key Takeaway
Prettyboy Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 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 | 155 ft (taller than 99% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 692 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 90.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 60.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,500 acres |
| Drainage Area | 80 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00001 |
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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Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Prettyboy Dam?
Prettyboy 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 Prettyboy Dam?
Prettyboy 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 Prettyboy Dam built?
Prettyboy Dam was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Prettyboy Dam?
Prettyboy 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 Prettyboy Dam?
Prettyboy Dam has a dam height of 155 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 Prettyboy Dam last inspected?
Prettyboy Dam was last inspected on June 13, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.