Began in 1973 the construction of Piney Run Dam took only 16 months. Now, imagine standing here. The Piney Run Dam stands as a testament to engineering and recreational foresight. It offers flood protection and water supply to Carroll County.
Piney Run Dam is an earthen embankment. It stretches 624 feet long and rises 73 feet high. Its creation led to the formation of Piney Run Reservoir. This reservoir has become a focal point for outdoor activities.
Completed in 1974 the dam serves multiple purposes. Flood risk reduction is primary. Recreation and water supply are also important benefits. Carroll Co Recreation and Parks currently owns and manages the dam.
The reservoir is capable of holding a vast amount of water. Its normal storage capacity reaches 6036 acre-feet. The maximum capacity can swell to 8842 acre-feet. The surface area of the reservoir spans 298 acres. The total catchment area covers 10 square miles.
Piney Run Dam features an uncontrolled spillway. It measures 250 feet wide. This spillway can discharge up to 22002 cubic feet of water per second. This ensures the dam’s safety during heavy rainfall.
Compared to other famous dams Piney Run Dam is smaller. However, it plays a vital role in its local context. The Hoover Dam is much larger. The Grand Coulee Dam and Theodore Roosevelt Dam dwarf Piney Run Dam in height and storage volume. Glen Canyon Dam also exceeds it in scale.
Piney Run Park surrounds the reservoir. It offers hiking trails and recreational facilities. The Piney Run Nature Center provides educational programs. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystem.
The damming of Piney Run created a 300-acre lake. It’s 50 feet deep at its lowest point. This lake is popular for boating and fishing. However, swimming and gasoline motors are not allowed.
The reservoir has four coves. They are Farm Cove Kickout Cove Dot’s Cove and Nature Center Cove. Anglers can find largemouth bass channel catfish and other species. The Maryland Freshwater Fisheries Division stocks the lake.
Hydrilla is present in the reservoir. This non-native aquatic plant may affect water clarity. Efforts are underway to manage its spread.
Piney Run Park has become a community hub. It offers a place for recreation education and relaxation. The Piney Run Dam and Reservoir have transformed this area.
The dam’s condition is currently rated as unsatisfactory. This means that there are recognized safety deficiencies. Remedial action is necessary to address these issues. The hazard potential is classified as high. This indicates that failure could cause loss of life.
Piney Run Dam stands as a reminder of human ingenuity. It provides essential services. It also offers a beautiful space for outdoor enjoyment. As we reflect on its history and purpose let us appreciate its importance to the community.