National Dam Inspection Program. Martins Dam, (NDS ID-PA-00620, DER ID-46-145), Delaware River Basin, Crow Creek (Abrams Run), Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Phase I Inspection Report.
Abstract
Martins Dam is an earth and masonry dam about 22.5 feet high and 260 feet long. Very limited data exists regarding the physical features of the dam. The dam was overtopped in September 1979, during Hurricane David, washing away a considerable portion of downstream rock fill at the maximum section and exposing the dry masonry interior of the dam, originally the downstream face of the dam. Erosion had also taken place at the left and right downstream abutment junctions, and a corrugated metal spillway extension was washed away. The spillway is located at approximately the mid-point of the dam and discharge flows through a 36 inch diameter steel pipe. The dam and its appurtenant facilities are considered to be in fair condition. Calculations indicate that the existing spillway system is not capable of passing about 0.1 PMF (Probable Maximum Flood) without overtopping. It is assessed that 0.5 PMF would cause failure and significantly increase the potential for excessive property damage and loss of life in the major downstream damage center, King of Prussia Mall. Therefore, the spillway system of this structure is considered to be seriously inadequate, and the dam is in an 'unsafe, nonemergency condition.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA082690