News Release

Water Level at Potomac River Dams 4 and 5 to Be Lowered

Date: September 2, 2020
Contact: John Adams, 301-745-5804

Williamsport, Md. ­ Weather permitting, on September 14th through September 16th, 2020, the water level of the Potomac River reservoir impounded by Dam #4 and Dam #5 will be lowered approximately 6 inches to allow the National Park Service to conduct an annual visual inspection of the dams and photographic documentation.

The water drawdown will begin at Dam #4 on the evening of September 14th and the drawdown will continue until the water level is approximately 6 inches below the crest of the dam. This will allow inspectors to see the entire dam and crest without the normal water veil. The water level at Dam #4 is scheduled to be kept at this level until the evening of September 15th. At that time, the water will slowly be brought back up to normal levels.

The water drawdown will begin at Dam #5 in the evening of September 15th and the drawdown will continue until the water level is approximately 6 inches below the crest of the dam. The water level at Dam #5 is scheduled to be kept at this level until the evening of September 16th. At that time, the water will slowly be brought back up to normal levels.

The water drawdown at both dams will be accomplished by diverting water through the hydroelectric plants located at both dams.  Visitors are welcomed to observe both dams during this drawdown.

The drawdown of the Potomac River water levels is dependent on the weather, existing water levels in the river, and the ability of the hydroelectric plants to divert and use the water to produce electricity. Therefore the dates and times of the drawdown and the return to normal water levels may fluctuate. Boat and dock owners in the reservoirs of both dams are encouraged to prepare for this drawdown by properly adjusting or positioning their boats and/or docks. Boaters should also use caution since obstacles not normally present may become a hazard due to the lower levels.

Please call the C&O Canal Headquarters at 301­-739-4200 for more information.