Velvet Hills South Swm Dam
Key Takeaway
Velvet Hills South Swm Dam is classified as significant hazard in Maryland. It was completed in 1987 and is 39 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 21.8% in MD) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 14 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 411 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1987 (39 years old) |
| NID ID | MD00426 |
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
Baltimore County DEPRM
Local Government
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High Hazard 175 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Velvet Hills South Swm Dam?
Velvet Hills South Swm 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 Velvet Hills South Swm Dam?
Velvet Hills South Swm Dam is owned by Baltimore County DEPRM (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Velvet Hills South Swm Dam built?
Velvet Hills South Swm Dam was completed in 1987, making it 39 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 Velvet Hills South Swm Dam?
Velvet Hills South Swm Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Velvet Hills South Swm Dam?
Velvet Hills South Swm Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Velvet Hills South Swm Dam last inspected?
Velvet Hills South Swm Dam was last inspected on December 4, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.