Savage River Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Savage Reservoir |
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Mouth of the Savage River Reservoir
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 Savage Reservoir
Location in Maryland
Savage Reservoir
Location in the United States
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| Location | Garrett County, Maryland |
| Coordinates | 39°30′26″N 79°7′56″W / 39.50722°N 79.13222°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United States |
The Savage River Reservoir is a large lake in northwest Maryland. It covers about 360 acres (1.5 square kilometers). This important reservoir was finished in 1952. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built it and still takes care of it today.
The reservoir was created by building the Savage Dam across the Savage River. It can hold a lot of water, about 31,800 acre-feet (39.2 million cubic meters). This water is used for two main things: helping to control floods and providing clean drinking water for nearby towns.
Contents
What is the Savage River Dam?
The Savage River Dam is a special kind of dam. It is made from rocks and earth. The dam stands 184 feet (56 meters) tall and stretches 1,050 feet (320 meters) long. It collects water from an area of 105 square miles (272 square kilometers).
The dam was updated in 1980 to make it even better. The Upper Potomac River Commission now owns and manages the dam.
History of the Reservoir
People started thinking about building the Savage River Reservoir around 1948. It was finally built in 1952. The reservoir is connected to the Savage River through the Savage River Dam.
Key Facts About the Dam
Here are some important facts about the Savage River Dam:
- Height: 184 feet (56 meters)
- Length: 1,050 feet (320 meters)
- Maximum Capacity: 31,800 acre-feet (39.2 million cubic meters)
- Normal Water Storage: 20,000 acre-feet (24.7 million cubic meters)
- Drainage Area: 105 square miles (272 square kilometers)
Repairs and Recovery
In 2007, the gates that control the water flow at the Reservoir stopped working. This happened because of rust. About $3.9 million was used to fix the dam. Workers had to drain some of the reservoir to make these repairs. The dam was reopened in 2010.
Since the repairs, the area below the dam has become a great spot for fishing. It is even called a "trophy area" by fishermen.
Fishing and Recreation
The Savage River Reservoir and the river itself are popular places for outdoor fun. Big Run, a public area, is located at the top end of the lake.
In April 2009, the Savage River Reservoir was named one of the top five fishing spots in Maryland. It was also listed as one of the top 100 rivers by an organization called Trout Unlimited.
The Savage River below the dam is known for its clear water. It is a favorite place for canoeing competitions.
What Fish Can You Catch?
Fishermen can enjoy catching different types of fish here. You might find catfish, trout, and bass. A study in 2008 found many wild adult trout in the river. There were about 1,376 trout per mile! The reservoir even holds the state record for the biggest Rainbow Trout ever caught in Maryland. It weighed 14 pounds, 3 ounces!
Boating and Paddling
The Savage River flows into the reservoir, offering beautiful views and chances for fishing and paddling. There are two boat launches near the dam, making it easy to get your boat into the water.
The Savage River flows south from the reservoir to the Potomac River. It drops 85 feet (26 meters) for every mile it flows. This makes it exciting for experienced paddlers. The Potomac River flows through Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia, eventually reaching the Chesapeake Bay.
