Unicorn Branch Dam
Key Takeaway
Unicorn Branch Dam is classified as significant hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 14.1% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 927 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 539 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 116 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 20 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,626 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1996 |
| NID ID | MD00047 |
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
MD DNR-Public Lands, Engineering & Constr-Eastern
State Government
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What is the hazard classification of Unicorn Branch Dam?
Unicorn Branch Dam 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 Unicorn Branch Dam?
Unicorn Branch Dam is owned by MD DNR-Public Lands, Engineering & Constr-Eastern (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Unicorn Branch Dam built?
Unicorn Branch Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Unicorn Branch Dam?
Unicorn Branch Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Unicorn Branch Dam?
Unicorn Branch Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Unicorn Branch Dam last inspected?
Unicorn Branch Dam was last inspected on December 21, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.