Savage River Dam
Key Takeaway
Savage River Dam is classified as high hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 184 ft (taller than 99.5% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 1,050 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 31.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 360 acres |
| Drainage Area | 105 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 97,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1952 (74 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00014 |
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
Upper Potomac River Commission
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Savage River Dam?
Savage River 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 Savage River Dam?
Savage River Dam is owned by Upper Potomac River Commission (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Savage River Dam built?
Savage River Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Savage River Dam?
Savage River Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Savage River Dam?
Savage River Dam has a dam height of 184 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 Savage River Dam last inspected?
Savage River Dam was last inspected on September 28, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.